A group of supporters of former Mungiki leader-turned-politician Maina Njenga caused a brief stir in Nairobi on Wednesday morning after staging a peaceful march along Jogoo Road. The incident occurred shortly after a court session at the Makadara Law Courts where Njenga was attending the mention of a criminal case against him.
The group, estimated at around 100 people, drew attention as they walked from the court to the Nairobi city centre under close police watch. Though the march was peaceful and orderly, many Nairobians were caught off guard, mistaking the procession for a protest, especially amid heightened tensions caused by ongoing demonstrations across the country.
“There was nothing to worry about on the march,” said a senior police officer monitoring the movement. Officers were deployed along the route to ensure calm and monitor the group’s progress, ultimately allowing them to disperse peacefully once they reached the city centre.
Photos and videos of the march circulated widely on social media, causing a ripple of concern before clarity emerged about the nature of the gathering.
Maina Njenga, a controversial political figure with a strong following, has been facing charges related to possession of crude weapons. The charges stem from his arrest in 2023 during the anti-tax protests that rocked the country. The prosecution alleges that Njenga and his co-accused were found with an arsenal of 14 machetes, 24 Maasai swords, 46 rungus, and three jembe sticks, suggesting intent to commit a felony.
The case has attracted significant public interest, and Wednesday’s court session was no exception, drawing scores of supporters eager to show solidarity. According to court officials, the mention proceeded without incident.
The peaceful march comes against a backdrop of nationwide unrest, with citizens protesting against government policies and police brutality. While the Wednesday incident turned out to be non-violent, it highlighted the charged political atmosphere and the public’s heightened sensitivity to any sign of organized gatherings in the capital.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation that may incite panic.
