Linda Mwananchi condemns attack on Mwangaza, faults governors’ council

NAIROBI, Kenya - The Linda Mwananchi Movement has strongly condemned an attack on former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Meru County. The movement called for investigations into the incident that caused damage to vehicles in her convoy, theft of equipment, and injuries to several staff members. According to a statement issued on Wednesday, the attack took place on Tuesday at Githongo Market in Central Imenti, where Mwangaza was invited to attend national celebrations by the County Commissioner.

The confrontation occurred as the former governor and her team attempted to enter the venue, which was under the presidencies of Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia. The Linda Mwananchi Movement's Head of Communication, Pauline Njoroge, stated that Mwangaza had the right to attend a public national event without facing violence or intimidation, regardless of her political affiliation.

She emphasized that Mashujaa Day is for all Kenyans, irrespective of their political beliefs. The condemnation comes amid escalating confrontations involving Mwangaza and her supporters in Meru County, raising concerns about political intolerance as the nation prepares for the 2027 General Election. Earlier on October 18, Mwangaza’s charity program, Okolea, was reportedly disrupted in Gituine Village during Igembe Central, with items intended for distribution to residents reportedly stolen, while equipment belonging to her husband, musician Murega Baichu, was taken.

Baichu has appealed for public assistance in identifying the suspected attackers, while Mwangaza has urged security agencies to take action. The former governor has also accused organized groups of youths, some reportedly armed with pangas, of being mobilized in parts of Meru to intimidate her camp. However, these allegations have not been independently verified.

The Linda Mwananchi Movement also criticized the Council of Governors for its perceived silence on alleged threats and intimidation against Mwangaza and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya. Njoroge stated that the council should vehemently condemn political persecution and safeguard the safety and dignity of serving and former governors, regardless of their political alignments.

The movement accused unnamed individuals of utilizing sponsored groups to target opposition leaders and their supporters, urging an immediate cessation of political violence. They demanded thorough, impartial investigations into the Githongo incident and other confrontations reported by Mwangaza, insisting that those responsible be held accountable.