The Linda Mwananchi Movement has condemned an attack on former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza during Mashujaa Day celebrations and is calling for a prompt, thorough and impartial investigation.

According to the movement, the incident happened on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, at Githongo Market in Central Imenti, Meru County. Mwangaza's vehicles were damaged, equipment was stolen and several of her staff were injured.

The movement said Mwangaza had been invited to the celebrations by the County Commissioner and had every right to attend a national event without facing violence or intimidation.

"Sponsored goons"

"The continued use of sponsored goons to attack and intimidate opposition leaders and their supporters must stop," the movement said in a statement reported by Citizen Digital and Capital FM.

It said the Githongo attack followed an earlier incident at Gituine in Igembe Central, during Mwangaza's Okolea charity event. Reports differ on whether that happened on 18 or 19 October. The movement wants both incidents investigated.

Governors' council criticised

The statement also criticised the Council of Governors for staying silent while Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Mwangaza face what the movement called threats and intimidation from the State.

No official response yet

By the time of publication, police and county security officials had not commented, and the Council of Governors had not responded. The claims in the movement's statement have not been independently confirmed.

A turbulent political career

Mwangaza was elected Meru's first woman governor in 2022 as an independent candidate. She survived several impeachment attempts before being removed from office. She has since aligned herself with opposition figures and kept up public engagements through her Okolea charity programme.

The incident adds to growing concern about political intolerance ahead of 2027. Opposition leaders have also accused the State of withdrawing their security details and disrupting their meetings.

Photos: Citizen Digital; Capital FM