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Embu: Businesses paralysed as locals protest and demand MP Gitonga Mukunji’s release
08th July, 2025 11:02 AM
Embu town has been thrown into a state of paralysis as scores of residents took to the streets demanding the immediate release of Manyatta Member of Parliament Gitonga Mukunji on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
The protests, which began as early as dawn, saw most businesses remain shut, with traders fearing possible looting and chaos.
The demonstrators accused the government of unfairly targeting their MP, who was arrested on Monday, July 7, 2025, in connection with recent political unrest.
The arrest has sparked outrage among his supporters, who believe he is being victimised for aligning with a rival political faction.
“Our MP is innocent! We will not sit and watch as he is persecuted for speaking out. Let them release him unconditionally,” shouted one protester amid cheers from the gathered crowd.
Police officers were deployed heavily across the town to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation. Teargas was lobbed in some areas to scatter groups that had started barricading roads.
By mid-morning, Embu’s central business district resembled a ghost town, with public transport disrupted and shops tightly shut. Residents say the town has not witnessed such tension in recent years.
Leaders allied to Mukunji have also condemned the arrest and called for calm as efforts to secure his release continue. However, demonstrators vowed to maintain pressure until the MP is freed.
The situation remains tense as residents await the next course of action from authorities.
