A routine inspection of the Kiagi–Gitombo–Gituamba road turned chaotic, when current MP Peninnah Gathoni Wamuchomba and former MP Gabriel Kago wa Lydia clashed amid political brinkmanship.
The duo arrived at the site to inspect tarmacking funded by the government. However, Kago’s supporters began jeering at Gathoni. Tensions rose quickly, pulling crowds onto the scene. At that point, police intervened to control the situation.
Gathoni took to Facebook afterward. She wrote: “This morning goons from Kibera were ferried to disrupt us from commissioning the tarmacking of Kiagi‑Gitombo‑Gituamba link road. The disruption was supervised by the former MP Kago, who was present with machete‑wielding goons who were repulsed by locals and the police.” She also stated that she had filed complaints about threats to her staff, but claimed “no action taken.”
Meanwhile, Kago’s supporters defended his presence. They said the road project is a government initiative that transcends party politics. Local videos show heated verbal exchanges, but no visible violence. Police acted swiftly to calm everyone down.
Residents expressed concern that this political showdown might delay a long-awaited road upgrade. One resident said: “Locals were genuinely worried. They felt that political rivalry could derail construction of a much‑needed road.”
The 4 km stretch linking Kiagi, Gitombo, and Gituamba is vital for travel and trade. Locals had hoped the inspection would reflect unity. Instead, political rivalry took center stage.
The Kiambu County administration did not comment publicly. Yet, local leaders expressed hope for inclusive dialogue. They emphasized that infrastructure funding should transcend partisan battles.
Police called for calm and urged both sides to focus on development rather than division. Meanwhile, civic leaders issued an appeal for joint oversight of the road. The community remains hopeful that despite the tension, the project will continue smoothly.
In the end, Gitombo residents want a completed road, without political drama. The Kiagi–Gitombo–Gituamba project might still fulfill that promise.
