Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused current Deputy President Kithure Kindiki of being involved in the resurgence of the Mungiki sect in the Mt. Kenya region.
The Mungiki, a proscribed group in Kenya, is notorious for its violent activities and criminal operations, particularly in the early 2000s.
Gachagua’s allegations come amid a backdrop of political rivalry and regional leadership tussles between him and Kindiki.
This rivalry has been evident in various instances, including divisions among Members of County Assembly (MCAs) in Mt. Kenya over whom to recognize as the primary liaison to President William Ruto.
Some MCAs have expressed support for Kindiki, citing his leadership qualities, while others remain loyal to Gachagua.
Mt. Kenya East elders have recently severed ties with Gachagua, endorsing Kindiki as their link to President Ruto.
This move signifies a shift in regional support, further intensifying the rivalry between the two leaders.
The Mungiki sect, primarily composed of young men from the Kikuyu ethnic group, gained notoriety in the late 1990s and early 2000s for their involvement in various illegal activities, including extortion, kidnappings, and violent enforcement of their version of traditional Kikuyu customs.
The group’s influence was particularly strong in the Mt. Kenya region, where they instilled fear among residents and posed big challenges to law enforcement agencies.
In response to the Mungiki threat, the Kenyan government launched a series of crackdowns in the mid-2000s, leading to the arrest and prosecution of many of its members.
These efforts reduced the group’s activities, bringing a semblance of peace to the affected regions.
However, recent reports suggest a potential resurgence of Mungiki activities, causing concerns among local communities and authorities with the current raising number of abductions.
Gachagua’s accusations against Kindiki suggest that elements within the government might be complicit in the revival of the sect.
He implies that political motivations could be driving this resurgence, possibly to destabilize certain regions or to achieve specific political objectives.
These claims have sparked debates and discussions among political analysts and the general public, with many calling for thorough investigations to ascertain the truth.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, on his part, has denied any involvement with the Mungiki sect.
He emphasizes the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order and assures the public that any resurgence of criminal groups will be dealt with decisively.
Kindiki’s supporters argue that Gachagua’s allegations are politically motivated, aimed at tarnishing his reputation following Gachagua’s impeachment.
The Mt. Kenya region holds political and economic importance in Kenya.
Any instability in this area could have broader implications for the country’s overall stability.
