Linda Mwananchi has condemned the attack on former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Githongo Market in Central Imenti, Meru County, demanding investigations into the incident and an earlier alleged attack in Igembe Central.
In a statement issued Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the political outfit said Mwangaza’s vehicles were destroyed, equipment stolen, and several members of her staff injured during Tuesday’s celebrations, describing the incident as an attack on her constitutional rights and an act of political intimidation.
The group said the former governor had been invited to the national celebrations by the County Commissioner and was entitled to participate in the public event without fear of violence.
“Beyond that invitation, she had every right as a Kenyan to attend a public national celebration without being subjected to violence and intimidation,” the statement said.
“ Mashujaa Day belongs to all Kenyans, regardless of their political affiliation.”
The statement, signed by Pauline Njoroge, Head of Communication at the National Secretariat, also raised concern over Mwangaza’s account of an earlier attack at Gituine Village in Igembe Central, allegedly reported to have occurred the day before the Githongo incident.
Linda Mwananchi called for prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into both incidents, insisting that those responsible should be held accountable.
“We demand prompt, thorough and impartial investigations into yesterday’s attack and the earlier incidents reported by Hon. Kawira Mwangaza. Those responsible must be brought to book,” the statement said.
The organisation also criticised the Council of Governors for what it termed silence over alleged threats and intimidation against opposition leaders, specifically citing Mwangaza and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.
It urged the council to publicly condemn political persecution and defend the safety and dignity of both serving and former governors, irrespective of their political affiliations.
“The Council must speak out against political persecution and defend the safety and dignity of serving and former governors, regardless of their political affiliation,” the statement said.
“Its silence in the face of these attacks is unacceptable.”
The remarks add to concerns over the safety of political leaders and their supporters during public gatherings, with Linda Mwananchi accusing unnamed actors of using violence to intimidate members of the opposition.
The group alleged that organised groups were being deployed to disrupt opposition activities and called for an end to what it described as politically sponsored violence.
“The continued use of sponsored goons to attack and intimidate opposition leaders and their supporters must stop,” the statement said.
However, the statement did not identify the alleged perpetrators or provide evidence linking any individual or institution to the attacks. It also did not indicate whether police had made arrests or announced the findings of any investigations into the incidents.
The allegations are likely to renew scrutiny of the security arrangements surrounding political events and the responsibility of authorities to protect participants at public celebrations.
Mashujaa Day, observed annually on October 20, commemorates Kenyans who contributed to the country’s struggle for independence and its subsequent development. National celebrations are intended to bring together citizens across political, ethnic and social divides.
Linda Mwananchi’s statement emphasised that the occasion should not be used to exclude or intimidate individuals because of their political leanings.
The organisation said protecting political leaders and their supporters was essential to ensuring that public events remained accessible to all Kenyans without intimidation or violence.
