A huge crowd of men, identified by police as supporters of former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga, caused panic along Jogoo Road in Nairobi today, Wednesday, July 9, as they marched towards the city centre.
Njenga was scheduled for a hearing at the Makadara Law Courts, and the crowd, who marched along the road shouting “Ndovu, Ndovu,” were believed to be accompanying the leader from the court hearing.
The group was peaceful as they walked from Makadara Law Courts to the city centre, police and witnesses said.
Photos and videos of the group quickly made rounds on social media, with some users assuming it was part of a new wave of demonstrations. This caused confusion and anxiety among residents and commuters in the area.
However, a police officer told witnesses that the group was peaceful and under surveillance throughout their movement. No arrests were made, and the group eventually dispersed in the city centre without incident.
“There was nothing to worry about during the march,” a police officer said.
Njenga was charged in 2023 with possession of crude weapons during the anti-tax protests in Kenya. According to the prosecution, Njenga and his co-accused had the intent to commit a felony given the items found in their possession.
The prosecution said that during their arrest, they were found in possession of 14 machetes, 24 Maasai swords, 46 rungus, and three jembe sticks.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto has instructed the police to act strictly against individuals who break the law during protests.
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