BY STEPHEN KILONZO
Business came to a standstill in Embu Town on Tuesday morning as residents took to the streets demanding the release of Manyatta Member of Parliament Gitonga Mukunji, who was arrested on Monday in connection with recent political unrest.
Shops remained closed and public transport was disrupted amid growing tension, as demonstrators accused the government of politically targeting their MP.
Chanting slogans and waving placards, the protesters vowed not to relent until Mukunji is released unconditionally.
“Our MP is innocent! We will not sit and watch as he is persecuted for speaking out,” one protester shouted, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
Police officers were deployed across the town to prevent escalation, with teargas fired in several areas to disperse crowds blocking roads.
By mid-morning, the central business district resembled a ghost town, with traders keeping their premises shut for fear of looting.
Supporters of Mukunji claim his arrest is politically motivated due to his alignment with a rival faction within the ruling coalition.
Local leaders allied to the MP have condemned the arrest and appealed for calm, even as residents maintain pressure on authorities.
No injuries or arrests from the protest had been reported by the time of publishing, but the situation remained tense.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the MP’s arrest or the protests.
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