Published on January 18, 2025 by Kariuki Mwangi
Last Updated on 1 year by Kariuki Mwangi
There was pandemonium at Nyeri’s Kamukunji grounds, Saturday January 18, 2024 after former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga and hundreds of youths stormed into a prayer meeting led by Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, the spouse to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Chaos erupted after Maina Njenga, accompanied by youths, stormed a prayer meeting forcing Pastor Dorcas to leave the event.
Gachagua, who was ousted last October, was expected to attend the event later in the afternoon but did not turn up as the turn of events raised political unease in the region amid fears that the group of youths accompanying the former Mungiki leader were out to disrupt the meeting.
Gachagua recently claimed plans to revive the Mungiki Sect in Mount Kenya as a wider plan by President William Ruto to destabilize the region.
On Friday, January 17, Pastor Dorcas announced the details of the event, inviting Kenyans to join her and other believers for a fellowship.
“We are already preparing for tomorrow’s prayers at Kamukunji Stadium, Nyeri, and we warmly welcome you to join us for this special day of seeking God together,” she had shared through her official social media pages, adding, “See you there!”
Maina Njenga was not scheduled to attend the religious meeting. However, rumours were swirling around about his arrival at the meeting, which caused tension.
The ex-Mungiki leader at the start of the year vowed to counter and undermine leaders opposed to President William Ruto, including the ousted Rigathi Gachagua. His claims were followed by a barrage of attacks from Gachagua.
The relationship between Gachagua and Maina Njenga has been characterized by tension and conflict, primarily due to political rivalry and differing ideologies. Njenga’s legal troubles have also played a role in shaping their enmity.
After facing criminal charges related to his alleged ties with Mungiki for 18 months, he was released when the prosecution team withdrew the case due to difficulties securing witness testimonies.
Njenga has criticized Gachagua for his perceived failures in revitalizing key economic sectors such as coffee and tea production in the Mt. Kenya region.
The ongoing rivalry suggests that both leaders are vying for control over political influence within the Mt. Kenya region as they prepare for future elections.
