There was drama in Murang'a County on Sunday, March 30, after an MCA's car was badly damaged by goons during a church service.
Kariara Ward MCA, Hon. Gichobe Mbatia, escaped the ordeal unscathed but his black SUV sustained severe damage, with the windshield completely shattered.
According to reports, the MCA's car was pelted with stones while he was attending a church service at Mwagu AIPCA Church. Some of the windows also appeared to have been slashed using a sharp object.
The incident took locals by surprise, as it underlined the growing tensions among area leaders. Moments after Mbatia's car was damaged, rumours circulated that an area MP was behind the attack.
Suspicions were further heightened by the fact that the goons who damaged the MCA's vehicle did not seek him out - an indication that the move was an intimidation tactic.
While the motives and perpetrators have not been established, locals believe the incident was politically motivated, especially because Mbatia has shown interest in working with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
In January 2025, when Gachagua was on the verge of unveiling a new political vehicle, the impeached Deputy President hosted a string of leaders at the Wamunyoro residence, including the Kariara Ward MCA.
At the time when Gachagua hosted Mbatia and other MCAs, he strongly hinted that the Mount Kenya voting bloc was behind him, saying:
“The voice of the people is at the grassroots. Our Constitution 2010 remains a game-changer in the creation and empowerment of the MCAs, who at all times are the voice of the people."
Mbatia, who won his seat on a UDA ticket, further showed he was on good terms with the former Deputy President on February 28 when he shared a photo of himself and Gachagua alongside a birthday message.
In the wake of the incident, some area leaders have alleged political malice, with some allegations emerging that the MCA is under attack from people allied to Gachagua.
Incidentally, the drama also comes at a time when President William Ruto is preparing to tour the Mount Kenya region from April 1.
