Former Murang’a Governor Mwangi wa Iria has raised concerns over the emergence of a political outfit, the ‘Itungati,’ reportedly linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Wa Iria has urged the government to investigate the group, which he alleges poses a security threat to the Mount Kenya region.
The term ‘Itungati,’ historically associated with Mau Mau warriors, has been adopted by Gachagua’s supporters, including elected leaders.
Wa Iria claims the group has been holding grassroots meetings to intimidate leaders into aligning with them and creating a hostile environment for dissenters.
“The freedom to express grievances against the government should not come at the expense of others’ rights or through intimidation,” Wa Iria stated.
The former governor, now chairperson of the Procurement Regulatory Board, also expressed concerns over the group’s unregistered cultural identity and attempts to recruit members from other regions.
Wa Iria vowed to invite President William Ruto and his deputy to Murang’a and warned those opposing the Kenya Kwanza administration against interfering with the visits.
Meanwhile, tensions in the region have been heightened by remarks from Maragua MP Mary Waithera, who dismissed Wa Iria’s appointment as an attempt to appease the Mount Kenya region. Speaking during a burial attended by Gachagua, Waithera asserted that appointments of Wa Iria, former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth, and former Senator Kembi Gitura would not sway locals’ sentiments against the government.
In response, Wa Iria questioned the MP’s opposition to the appointments, stating, “Why should anyone be opposed to locals being given jobs? In fact, more jobs should be allocated to our people.”
The political discourse highlights deepening divisions in the Mount Kenya region, with leaders clashing over strategies and allegiances as the region grapples with its political future.