Tensions flared in Nyeri when Maina Njenga, accompanied by a group of youths, stormed a prayer meeting organized by Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, the spouse of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The incident unfolded at Kamukunji Grounds, where Pastor Dorcas was leading an evangelistic gathering.
Witnesses reported that the disruption forced Pastor Dorcas to leave the event, raising concerns about the safety and political climate in the region. Njenga’s presence at the prayer meeting, which he was not scheduled to attend, fueled rumors and unease among attendees.
Pastor Dorcas had earlier invited Kenyans to join her for the fellowship, sharing her excitement on social media. “We are already preparing for tomorrow’s prayers at Kamukunji Stadium, Nyeri, and we warmly welcome you to join us for this special day of seeking God together,” she posted, encouraging participation.
Gachagua, who was ousted from his position last October, was expected to attend later in the day but did not appear. Njenga, the former Mungiki leader, has made headlines this year with his vow to undermine leaders opposing President William Ruto, including Gachagua, leading to a series of public confrontations between the two.
The political rivalry between Gachagua and Njenga has been marked by tension, stemming from conflicting ideologies and past legal troubles. After facing criminal charges regarding his alleged connections with the Mungiki sect, Njenga was released when the prosecution dropped the case due to difficulties in securing witness testimonies.
Gachagua has repeatedly accused Njenga of attempting to revive the Mungiki sect, which has a notorious reputation for criminal activities in Kenya. “An attempt is being made now to revive that criminal gang. Two months ago, they had started illegal revenue collection,” Gachagua stated in early January, addressing the recent arrests of over 250 youths suspected of Mungiki affiliation.
Read also: Gachagua blames Government after wife’s prayer meeting Incident
In May 2023, while still in office, Gachagua cautioned Njenga against any efforts to re-establish the group, assuring the public that the government would act decisively to maintain safety.
Following Gachagua’s impeachment, Njenga has aligned himself with President Ruto and criticized the former deputy president for failing to revitalize key economic sectors, such as coffee and tea production, in the Mt. Kenya region.
During a recent prayer meeting at Kabiruini Showground, Njenga expressed his dissatisfaction with Gachagua’s leadership and called for unity among residents to support local development initiatives. The ongoing rivalry between these two leaders suggests a fierce contest for political influence in the Mt. Kenya region as they gear up for future elections.
