Recent incidents of violence, looting, and destruction of property during protests and disruptions in parts of Mt Kenya have raised serious concern among residents and business owners. Areas such as Murang’a, Nyeri, Kiambu, and Githurai have in recent times been mentioned in reports of heightened political tension during demonstrations, leaving traders worried about safety and stability.
What has been happening on the ground is that protests and disruptions, especially around transport-related strikes and political gatherings, have in some cases been accompanied by chaos, vandalism, and looting. Small traders in places like Murang’a, Nyeri, Kiambu, and Githurai have reported losses after shops were damaged or goods stolen, turning moments of public unrest into painful economic setbacks for ordinary citizens.
Divisive political rhetoric is now being widely blamed for increasing chaos and tension in these areas. Many observers are calling on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to be more mindful of his public statements and political messaging. The concern being raised is that, in such a highly charged environment, emotionally loaded or divisive language can deepen community divisions and worsen already fragile tensions. Leaders carry influence, and that influence must always be used to promote calm, not conflict.
There is growing fear among residents that political competition is turning communities against each other. Reports from affected areas suggest that businesses belonging to ordinary traders have suffered most during moments of unrest, leaving families struggling at a time when the cost of living remains high and pressure on households continues to rise.
Mt Kenya has long been known as a region of enterprise, stability, and order. That reputation is now under pressure, and many citizens are calling for urgent restraint from all political actors. Political differences should never translate into destruction of property, intimidation, or fear among innocent people.
It is therefore important for leaders, including Gachagua, to desist from divisive politics and instead promote unity, peaceful coexistence, and responsible political engagement. Public figures must consistently remind their supporters that disagreement is part of democracy, but violence, looting, and destruction are not.
At this moment, Kenyans are watching closely. What is needed is responsible leadership, calm political communication, and a firm commitment to protecting peace and livelihoods across Murang’a, Nyeri, Kiambu, Githurai, and the wider Mt Kenya region.
