MP's alleged arrest sparks outrage

Addressing the mass media in Embu town, a section of concerned locals led by  Juma Kalimoni condemned what they termed as a politically motivated arrest, saying the MP was being punished for championing the voice of the people.

“We demand the immediate release of our MP. He has committed no crime. This is pure political intimidation, and we shall not rest until he is free,” declared Kalimoni, warning of mass protests if the MP is not released.

The residents claimed that MP Mukunji’s arrest was a deliberate move to silence dissenting voices and frustrate his political ambitions ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race in Embu county.

Kelvin Gachima, another resident accused the state of weaponizing the law to curtail Mukunji's growing influence.

“The allegations against him are fabricated. Mukunji is not in government. He is being targeted simply because he stands for truth and has declared interest in the Embu governor seat come 2027 and his association with former DP Rigathi Gachagua. If that is  his crime, then it's democracy that is  on trial,” Gachima said.

Joseph Thuku, a resident termed the arrest as a betrayal to the over 100,000 voters who entrusted Mukunji with the mandate to represent them in Parliament.

“If he has done anything wrong, take him to court. Otherwise, set him free. We will not allow political games to override the will of the people,” said Thuku.

The residents revealed that the news of Mukunji’s alleged arrest was confirmed to them by his lawyer, Advocate Ndegwa Njiru. They insisted that unless the government acts swiftly to release the MP, they will mobilize countywide protests in solidarity with their leader.

As the pressure mounts, all eyes are now on the authorities to provide clarity on the MP’s whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his alleged arrest.