Nyeri Town Member of Parliament Duncan Maina Mathenge, popularly known as DMM, faced a hostile reception on Monday morning in Nyeri Town CBD along Gakere Road.
The MP, who had visited the area to engage with matatu drivers, was heckled and ultimately chased away by angry residents, who accused him of betraying their local leader, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The drama unfolded as Mathenge attempted to address drivers at the townâs stage, expressing sympathy over their forced relocation to the new bus terminus in the Asian Quarters.
The MP argued that the move could jeopardize their livelihoods, but his message was drowned out by angry chants from the crowd.
“Traitor!” and “We don’t want your help!” residents shouted, with many accusing the MP of undermining Nyeri Countyâs leadership by supporting Gachagua’s impeachment.
Eyewitnesses reported that tensions escalated quickly, with residents booing and demanding the MP leave the area. Mathenge was forced to cut his address short and leave under heavy security escort.
The relocation of matatus to the Asian Quarters terminus has sparked protests from drivers and operators, who fear the new site will lead to reduced business. However, even amid their grievances, drivers made it clear they did not want Mathengeâs involvement.
“We donât need him here,” said one driver.
“He betrayed our own leader, and now he wants to pretend he cares about us,” added another
The hostility stems from Mathenge’s controversial decision to vote in favor of Rigathi Gachaguaâs impeachment, a move seen by many in Nyeri as a betrayal of their county’s pride and representation.
Nyeri Town MP Duncan Maina Mathenge Heckled by Residents
Since his election, Mathengeâs relationship with constituents has been strained, with critics accusing him of prioritizing personal interests over the community. His support for Gachaguaâs impeachment appears to have deepened this divide, casting doubt on his political future in the county.
Local political analyst Patrick Njoroge noted that Mathenge’s position on the impeachment vote was likely influenced by national political dynamics but warned that such decisions often carry significant local consequences.
“Nyeri residents view Gachagua as one of their own, and voting to impeach him is seen as an unforgivable act of betrayal,” Njoroge explained.
The backlash against Mathenge clearly shows the challenges of navigating national and local politics, especially in a region as politically active as Nyeri.
With Gachagua still commanding strong support in his home county, Mathengeâs position as MP may now be in jeopardy as he faces mounting opposition from his constituents.
Efforts to reach Mathenge for comment on Monday were unsuccessful, but his team is expected to later release a brief statement on the rough visit.
By Nairobi