Fresh attention has been drawn to comments reportedly made by Manyatta Member of Parliament Gitonga Mukunji shortly before a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) empowerment rally in Nembure, Embu County, an event that was later disrupted by violence. The incident reportedly resulted in the death of one person and the burning of several vehicles.
A video circulating widely on social media appears to show Mukunji addressing residents ahead of the planned gathering. In the footage, he discusses money allegedly being distributed in connection with the event and appears to encourage residents to reject a payment of Sh1,000 while demanding Sh10,000 instead.
He also appears to suggest that the meeting should be brought to an end if anyone insults him. His remarks have since attracted considerable attention, particularly because they surfaced after the rally descended into disorder.
In the recording, Mukunji is heard speaking in Swahili, saying: “Kesho Kindiki akikuja Nembure watu wangu msichukue Sh.1,000. Pale State House wamepewa budget ya Sh.10,000 kila mtu. Na mtu akijaribu kutusi Mukunji wacha mkutano ikwishe.”
The resurfaced video has triggered debate among political observers and members of the public, with critics questioning whether the remarks could have contributed to the tensions witnessed during the rally. Some have argued that political leaders have a responsibility to promote calm and peaceful participation, particularly during public gatherings attended by senior government officials.
Other social media users have called for clarification from the MP regarding the context and meaning of his statements. They have also questioned whether his comments had any connection to the events that unfolded when the Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki, arrived for the planned programme.
Former Embu Governor Cecilia Mbarire has also condemned the violence, describing what happened as an allegedly coordinated effort rather than an incident that developed spontaneously. She reportedly accused Mukunji of involvement in the alleged mobilisation of individuals who disrupted the event and contributed to the destruction of vehicles.
Mbarire argued that such conduct was unacceptable from political leaders and suggested that attempts to disrupt public functions could be part of broader political strategies aimed at creating instability.
The UDA empowerment meeting at Nembure Stadium was eventually cancelled after tensions escalated. Kindiki reportedly called for investigations to establish what led to the disruption and determine responsibility for the incidents that followed.