The National Police Service swiftly dispelled rumors circulating on social media, emphatically denying the alleged arrest of Meru County Governor Kawira Mwangaza on Wednesday afternoon.
In an official statement released on X (formerly Twitter), the police clarified the situation, confirming that Governor Mwangaza had not been detained, contrary to the misinformation spreading online.
The incident unfolded in Ruiga Village, Imenti Central Constituency, where a standoff occurred between Governor Mwangaza and police officers from Kariene Police Station.
The police officers arrived at a homestead where the Governor was reportedly donating a cow as part of her ‘Okolea’ outreach program.
Notably, this program had been recently banned by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki due to its alleged inciteful nature.
Eyewitnesses reported that Governor Mwangaza confronted the police officers, questioning their presence at the homestead.
Subsequently, she entered a police land cruiser, asserting that she was under arrest. However, the police on the ground contended that the Governor had orchestrated the incident, swiftly entering the police vehicle to simulate an arrest.
Following the incident, Governor Mwangaza took to Facebook, declaring herself “free” and expressing gratitude for her safety.
This incident occurred within the context of Interior CS Kindiki’s ban on the ‘Okolea’ outreach program, issued after chaotic scenes marred one of its functions in Makiri, Igembe South Constituency. During the protest, residents slaughtered a cow and set donated mattresses ablaze in a display of discontent.
In response to the situation, Prof. Kindiki condemned the actions of the Governor’s allies, accusing them of inciting violence, disrupting peace, and assaulting journalists. He reinforced the ban on meetings perceived as inciteful, underscoring the government’s determination to maintain law and order in the region.
