BY ANGELA R. KIURA
Embu Senator Alexander Munyi Mundigi has defended Governor Cecily Mbarire following backlash over her claims that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is funding criminal elements to infiltrate peaceful protests.
The protests, which erupted earlier in the week, turned violent, leading to looting and destruction of property worth millions in Embu town, including government offices and private businesses.
Addressing the media on Friday, Mundigi said Governor Mbarire’s remarks were born out of frustration after vital revenue-generating institutions were vandalized.
He said her concerns reflected the pain of local traders whose livelihoods were severely disrupted.
The senator took a swipe at Gachagua, accusing him of misleading the Mt. Kenya region and clinging to political ambitions despite a Senate impeachment decision barring him from contesting any elective seat for ten years.
Mundigi urged leaders, including Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, to focus on unity and development for the region.
He also called on residents to support Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, describing him as a stable and visionary leader.
With fears of capital flight gripping Embu, the senator appealed to investors to stay, assuring them the unrest is a national issue, not unique to the county.
However, he urged business owners to remain vigilant as police struggle to contain rising insecurity.
While backing the right to protest, Mundigi warned the youth against destroying public and private property, urging peaceful demonstrations.
Meanwhile, Embu West Sub-County Police Commander Zacharia Omae confirmed the arrest of 19 suspects linked to theft and vandalism during the protests.
Omae urged residents not to buy goods sold at suspiciously low prices, saying they could be stolen items.
He called on business owners with CCTV footage to share it with police and encouraged the public to provide tips, promising confidentiality.
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