"Say No to a Goon" Protests Erupt in Mt Kenya as Residents Reject their MP

Tension has escalated in Kiambaa after a section of residents staged protests against their Member of Parliament, John Njuguna Wanjiku, over allegations linking him to the violence that disrupted the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election on July 16, 2026.

The demonstrators marched through parts of the constituency carrying placards condemning the legislator and expressing their dissatisfaction with the allegations. 

Some of the protesters displayed messages describing him as a "goon MP," while insisting that leaders associated with violence should not hold public office.

The protests follow claims that the Kiambaa MP was involved in facilitating the transportation and coordination of masked individuals who allegedly disrupted voting during the closely watched by-election. 

The allegations have attracted widespread public attention and intensified calls for a thorough investigation into the incident.

However, MP John Njuguna Wanjiku has strongly denied the accusations, dismissing them as politically motivated. He maintained that his presence in Ol Kalou was for legitimate reasons and rejected suggestions that he had any involvement in the unrest.

“I wouldn’t have used my official car if I had gone to cause chaos,” the legislator said while defending himself against the allegations.

The controversy has prompted the government to promise a comprehensive investigation into the events surrounding the by-election.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen assured Kenyans that all claims relating to the violence would be investigated thoroughly. 

He emphasized that no individual would be shielded from the law if found responsible for orchestrating or participating in the disturbances, regardless of their position or political affiliation.

Murkomen noted that the National Police Service had deployed sufficient security personnel during the by-election but acknowledged concerns over reports that hooded and armed individuals disrupted the electoral process. 

He said investigators would establish the identities of those involved and determine whether any political leaders played a role in the incident.

The protests have further heightened political tensions as Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election, with growing calls for peaceful political engagement and accountability.

Authorities are expected to continue their investigations before announcing any findings or possible legal action against those found to have participated in the violence.