Police deployed in Kangema after night protests leave two dead

Gakira market neighboring Kangema town where goons started protesting at 7 pm on Monday

Scores of police officers have been deployed to Kangema town in Murang’a County following violent protests on Monday night that left two people dead.

The demonstrations erupted after a relatively calm day, catching residents of Kangema town and the neighbouring Gakira market by surprise.

Jane Wanjiku, a retail shop operator at the market, said they were alarmed when a local trader began dragging tyres onto the street at around 6.30 pm, blocking the Kangema-Kiria-ini road.

“Soon after, youths lit bonfires, prompting locals to close their businesses and rush home,” she said.

Wanjiku recalled police officers confronting the trader about the roadblock.

“He said he wanted to be shot dead, but the officers told him they had no intention of harming anyone.”

At the time, only three officers were present. They attempted to clear the tyres but were overpowered by youths who had gathered and begun pelting stones.

“It was very painful because we were forced to close early. I believe protests should not be held at night. Those who came seemed intent on looting,” she added.

Kennedy Irungu, a milk trader, said he arrived at Gakira market to sell milk but noticed unfamiliar faces in the area.

“People began closing their businesses and running home. Later, some individuals damaged the market’s fence and vandalised it,” he said.

Bodaboda operator Evanson Kaguru condemned the unrest, noting it disrupted their livelihoods.

“It’s unfortunate lives were lost. We must work together to identify and stop such actions before they escalate,” he said.

Area MP Peter Kihungi confirmed normalcy had prevailed earlier in the day, but alleged that groups of youths were ferried into the town.

“Locals regrouped to protect their businesses as the group vandalised Gakira market, breaking into stores and destroying stalls,” he said.

Kihungi said local officers contacted him to help calm the situation. Upon arrival, he found the group unwilling to disperse.

"The fatalities were recorded around 9 pm. We regret the loss of life and extend our condolences to the families,” he said.

He urged political leaders to avoid involving youths in confrontations, emphasising that grievances should be addressed peacefully and during the day.

“Kangema residents are peace-loving. We must not allow outsiders to destabilise our area,” he added.