Chaos broke out at Igoji market in Imenti South constituency, Meru County, after a confrontation between former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s supporters and a rival group disrupted a public event she had organized.
Mwangaza, who was at the market for a social outreach activity under her Okolea program, was blocked from proceeding by a section of residents who claimed she had not secured the necessary permit to use the venue.
Tensions quickly escalated, prompting police officers to intervene and disperse the crowd using tear gas.In a statement following the incident, Mwangaza defended her actions, stating that she had informed security authorities about the meeting a week in advance.
She accused unnamed local leaders of orchestrating the chaos in an attempt to sabotage her engagement with the community.”This was a peaceful initiative meant to empower residents through the Okolea program,” Mwangaza said. “It’s unfortunate that some individuals are politicizing development and using intimidation to silence alternative voices.”
The incident highlights the growing political tensions in the region as Meru gears up for the 2027 general elections. Police have yet to confirm if any arrests were made or if investigations are underway
