Former Meru Governor Mwangaza Injured as Police Disrupt Religious Gathering

A religious gathering in Meru County descended into chaos on Saturday when police fired tear gas to disperse a crowd attending an event addressed by former Governor Kawira Mwangaza at Kiguchwa Market in Tigania East Constituency in the afternoon.

Witnesses reported that police stormed the venue shortly after Mwangaza, joined by her husband Murega Baichu and aides, had reached the interdenominational prayer meeting, organised by a local church to support the needy and pray for the sick.

Advancing on the crowd, the officers deployed several teargas canisters, including one allegedly thrown into Mwangaza’s vehicle while she and her husband were inside.

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The former Governor’s communications team confirmed that both she and her driver were hospitalised following the incident. The driver sustained a head injury, while the ex-county boss, affected by tear gas fumes, was temporarily unable to speak.

“This was a deliberate act of intimidation,” said Nchamba Mbithi, a close ally, speaking to journalists. “Throwing tear gas into her car at a church event is beyond comprehension.”

The sudden assault forced the event to an abrupt halt, with attendees fleeing in panic.

Human rights lawyer Mugambi Imanyara, present at the event, condemned the police action as unlawful and threatened legal action. “We notified authorities about this gathering, as required,” Imanyara said. “This heavy-handed response was unjustified. If this continues, we will be heading to court.”

Police have not released an official statement, but sources on the ground mentioned intelligence reports of possible clashes between rival political groups as the reason for their actions.

Mwangaza, impeached in August 2024 over allegations of abuse of office, has faced repeated disruptions since leaving office. Her team, however, is accusing the authorities of orchestrating a campaign to silence her, pointing to a pattern of police interference at her public appearances.

“The state is misusing security forces to settle political scores,” their statement read.

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