Kiambu MCAs claim intimidation over plot to oust Governor Wamatangi

A section of Kiambu Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) allied to Governor Kimani Wamatangi claim they are being subjected to a campaign of fear and intimidation ahead of the assembly’s reopening next week.

The legislators allege that a coordinated plot is underway to overhaul the House leadership, including the removal of Speaker Charles Thiongo, to pave the way for a looming impeachment motion against the Governor.

The controversy peaked following a formal report made by Speaker Charles Thiongo at the Kiambu Police Station. Accompanied by several MCAs and his lawyer, Kariuki Njiri, the Speaker claimed that on January 21, unknown individuals visited his private residence while he was away sitting for examinations at the University of Nairobi.

"I was informed by my spouse and the guard that people in a black Ford Ranger were looking for me at my home. They looked jittery and unsure," Speaker Thiongo stated. "I don’t handle official business at home; my law firm and the assembly offices are well known. Why invade my personal space where I live with my small children?"

The Speaker claimed a known member of the County Assembly is behind the plot. He expressed deep concern for his family's safety, demanding that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) summon the colleague in question to explain his motives.

Deputy Speaker John Njue and Kiuu Ward MCA Zacharia Macharia have termed the incident a calculated move to "sell fear." According to Macharia, the intimidation is directly linked to a scheme to oust Governor Wamatangi.

"There is a clear intention to impeach the Governor, and that is why the Speaker is being targeted," Macharia said. "However, over 50 MCAs are firmly behind the Governor. No impeachment motion will sail through this house."

The pro-Wamatangi faction has issued a seven-day ultimatum to security agencies to investigate the Speaker’s incident and reported cases of "unknown persons" firing shots near the Governor’s residence.

Nominated MCA Tabitha Wangui said she was recently summoned for disciplinary action by the UDA party over false claims that she had attacked President William Ruto.

"The UDA party stood with the truth and dismissed those lies," Wangui said. "Those allegations were a trap to have me sacked and to instill fear in other nominated MCAs, forcing them to sign for the Governor’s removal. We are being targeted so we withdraw our support for Wamatangi."

As the Assembly prepares to resume sittings, the political atmosphere in Kiambu remains volatile. Lawyer Kariuki Njiri confirmed that the County Commander and the DCIO have taken up the matter, promising "thorough and conclusive investigations."

Deputy Speaker Njue urged his colleagues to shift their focus from "early politics" to service delivery. "This is not the time for power plays. We have a mandate to deliver development for the people of Kiambu before the elections next year," he said.

With both sides digging in, the coming week at the Kiambu County Assembly is expected to be a litmus test for Governor Wamatangi’s survival and the independence of the House leadership.