BY ANGELA R. KIURA
A dramatic 90-hour tree-hugging protest by a Ciambugu resident has drawn national attention to the long-standing lack of basic services in parts of Mbeere North, Embu County.
Eric Munene endured nearly four days clinging to a tree at Ciambugu market in a peaceful demonstration demanding better access to healthcare, clean water and tarmac roads for his community.
The protest, which began on Thursday evening, quickly transformed the normally busy market into a centre of solidarity, as residents paused business activities to rally behind Munene’s cause.
Crowds grew over the days, with locals describing the act as a bold stand against years of neglect.
Munene withstood extreme weather conditions, including scorching daytime heat and cold nights, until Monday at around 11 a.m., when he was taken to Embu Level Five Hospital after showing signs of physical exhaustion.
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Residents from Ciambugu and the neighbouring Nthawa area hailed him as courageous and selfless, saying his action had amplified the voices of communities that have long struggled in silence.
Speaking outside Embu Referral Hospital, Munene’s grandmother, Bancy Karimi, said the family was proud of his resolve, even as they expressed concern over his health.
She noted that while the protest had taken a toll on him physically, it succeeded in clearly communicating the community’s grievances.
As Munene recovers, residents say they hope the unusual protest will prompt meaningful engagement from authorities and lead to lasting development in the area.
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