Maina Njenga, the former leader of the Mungiki sect, has refuted claims that he is President William Ruto’s new political figurehead in the vote-rich Mt. Kenya region. Speaking on Hot 96’s HOT Breakfast show, Njenga distanced himself from the Kenya Kwanza administration, asserting that his focus is on uniting Kenyans.
“I am aligning with Kenyans. Right now, we want unity. I was an Azimio person,” Njenga stated, emphasizing his continued allegiance to the opposition coalition led by Raila Odinga.
Njenga’s political prominence resurfaced after the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, leading to speculation that he might be tasked with countering Gachagua’s influence in the region. However, Njenga dismissed these narratives, criticizing Gachagua for making baseless accusations.
Gachagua recently alleged that a State-sponsored gang is attempting to destabilize the region, claiming that Mungiki was being revived. He urged his allied MPs to petition the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding the gang’s resurgence. In response, Njenga ridiculed Gachagua’s efforts.
“He [Gachagua] wants to take me to The Hague, yet he is toothless. That is just yapping,” Njenga remarked.
The discussion also touched on the troubling trend of abductions in Kenya. Njenga condemned the acts and shared his personal experience, recalling being abducted for seven days during the planning of anti-government protests led by Raila Odinga.
“I was taken by hooded men just before dinner and driven 300 kilometers. It’s not a good experience. The government should stop this,” he lamented.
Njenga’s remarks have fueled discussions about his evolving role in Mt. Kenya politics. While he maintains his opposition stance, his re-entry into the political arena amid tensions between Gachagua and Ruto raises questions about the region’s shifting dynamics.
As Mt. Kenya remains a key battleground, the unfolding political developments will undoubtedly shape the region’s future and its alignment in the 2027 general elections.
