There was chaos in Murang’a County on Sunday, March 30, after a group of goons vandalized the vehicle of Kariara Ward MCA, Hon. Gichobe Mbatia, while he was attending a church service.
The black SUV belonging to the MCA was severely damaged in the attack, with its windshield completely shattered.
Some of the windows also appeared to have been slashed with a sharp object. However, Mbatia himself was not harmed during the incident.
According to reports, the attack occurred at Mwagu AIPCA Church, where the MCA had gone to worship.
The unexpected violence shocked local residents, as such incidents are uncommon in the area. The attack has since raised concerns about rising political tensions in the region.
Shortly after the incident, speculation emerged that a local Member of Parliament (MP) may have been behind the attack.
This suspicion was fueled by the fact that the attackers did not physically target the MCA but instead focused on destroying his vehicle—an act widely seen as an intimidation tactic.
Although the identities of the perpetrators remain unknown, many locals believe the attack was politically motivated. This is particularly because Mbatia has been linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
In January 2025, when Gachagua was reportedly planning to launch a new political movement, he hosted several leaders at his Wamunyoro residence, including Mbatia.
During the meeting, Gachagua emphasized that the strength of Mount Kenya politics lies at the grassroots level, stating:
“The voice of the people is at the grassroots. Our Constitution 2010 remains a game-changer in the creation and empowerment of the MCAs, who at all times are the voice of the people.”
Mbatia, who was elected under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, has continued to associate with Gachagua, further fueling speculation about political divisions.
On February 28, he publicly showed his support for the former Deputy President by sharing a birthday message alongside a photo of the two together.
Following the attack, several leaders from the region have condemned the incident, with some alleging political foul play.
There are claims that Mbatia is being targeted by individuals linked to Gachagua, raising further questions about internal political struggles within the Mount Kenya region.
Notably, this incident has occurred just days before President William Ruto’s scheduled visit to the Mount Kenya region on April 1.
The timing of the attack has led to further speculation about ongoing political tensions in the area.
Join Gen z and millennials TaskForce official 2025 WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time the ongoing situation https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
