Tension flared at a burial in Murang’a as Lamu Women Rep Monicah Muthoni found herself on the receiving end of angry locals after shouting President William Ruto’s campaign slogans in an opposition stronghold.
The dramatic incident occurred during the burial of James Gakuya’s mother, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his DCP (Deputy President’s Coalition) brigade were in attendance.
The situation escalated when Muthoni, who is a staunch ally of Ruto, shouted “Tutam!” and “Singapore!” — powerful phrases tied to President Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid.
“Tutam” refers to Ruto’s promise to “transform” the country, while “Singapore” symbolizes his vision of making Kenya an economic powerhouse, akin to the Southeast Asian city-state.
These chants, however, did not sit well with the crowd, who had gathered in Murang’a, an area traditionally seen as an opposition bastion.
The rowdy group began to shout back, with some locals allegedly attempting to attack Muthoni for what they viewed as a disrespectful attempt to politicize a solemn occasion.
Things took a dramatic turn when the security detail had to step in to protect the Lamu MP, as tempers flared and angry words were exchanged.
Rigathi Gachagua, who was visibly shaken by the incident, tried to calm the crowd, but the tension was palpable.
The incident highlights the ongoing political divisions in Kenya, particularly as the 2027 elections approach.
With President Ruto and his allies continuing to rally for his second term, any attempt to stir up political sentiments in opposition strongholds could easily spark chaos.
For Muthoni, the incident was a stark reminder of just how deep political rivalries run in Kenya, even at what was meant to be a peaceful burial gathering.
The controversial outburst is likely to fuel more debates on whether such events should remain untouched by politics or if they will continue to serve as platforms for political maneuvering.
By tuko