Kiambu leaders exchange words as Thika Stadium construction kicks off
By Mathew Ndungu, February 16, 2026The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a 10,000-seater Thika Stadium took an unexpected turn after an exchange of words between Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a and leaders allied to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Defence on February 16, 2026, to oversee the Ksh850,000,000 project, attracted national government officials, local leaders, and residents who turned up to witness the launch of the long-awaited facility.
Moments after dignitaries arrived, supporters from different camps began shouting at each other, prompting security officers to step in and restore calm.
When she addressed the gathering, Ng’ang’a questioned the governor’s absence and expressed her disappointment.
“Governor Wamatangi feared coming here because he knows he is outgoing. Let him come and face me. When I roar, Wamatangi runs,” she said to cheers from sections of the crowd.
She added that the stadium would one day host national celebrations.
“Next time, tell the governor not to send people but to come in person and face me. This time round, he will know he is dealing with a lion,” she said.
Kiambu Deputy Governor Rosemary Kirika, who represented Wamatangi, responded by saying the governor had intended to attend.
“I want to assure you, Hon. Alice, that Governor Wamatangi is not a coward. He is a brave man who avoids drama, especially during functions meant for development,” Kirika said.
She maintained that the stadium symbolised cooperation between the two levels of government.
“What we are seeing today is a good sign of collaboration. The borehole, swimming pool, stalls, and basketball pitch constructed by the county government will not be destroyed. They will all be preserved,” she stated.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya assured residentsthat the facility would benefit young people in the region.
“We are constructing over 20 stadiums across the country to nurture talent. This will be a state-of-the-art facility, and that is why President William Ruto sent us here to ensure the project is completed before the end of the year,” Mvurya said.
“The president directed us to assure you that no demolitions will take place. The money invested in those stalls will not be lost,” he added.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya called for unity.
“We are here to push the agenda of Kiambu County development. This is not a political rally,” she said.
EALA MP Maina Karobia welcomed the project and urged the protection of traders.
“I urge the government not to chase away the local traders who make a living from the stalls. We welcome the stadium as it will help us identify, nurture and grow talents in this region,” he said.
Despite the tense moments, residents expressed hope that the stadium project will move forward smoothly and bring new opportunities to the area.