Chaos at Kiambu Court as Police Attempt to Re-Arrest Juja MP George Koimburi
Tension erupted outside the Kiambu Law Courts on Thursday morning when security officers tried to re-arrest Juja MP George Koimburi shortly after he was freed following a court hearing.
Koimburi, who had spent two days in custody, was relieved to walk out a free man, surrounded by his lawyers and supporters. However, that relief was short-lived as his aide quickly alerted him to an impending arrest.
Acting fast, Koimburi took off on foot and escaped on a motorcycle, leaving his frustrated supporters behind.
Why Was Koimburi in Court?
Earlier, Koimburi’s lawyers had addressed the media, explaining that they had sought his release on bail after he missed previous court appearances.
The MP was arrested on Tuesday, just days after questioning the government’s spending on the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairman’s bid. On Wednesday, he was arraigned and charged with forging academic certificates, facing six counts. He denied the charges and secured his release on a Ksh. 200,000 cash bail.
His lawyer, Ndegwa Njiru, expressed confidence in their legal battle, saying,
“The court has granted him bail, and that’s why he is a free man today. We believe in the law and will overcome these challenges.”
Leaders Condemn the Arrest
The attempted re-arrest has sparked backlash from leaders allied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accuse the government of using police to silence critics.
Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa questioned the move, saying,
“Why send police to arrest an MP who already has a police bodyguard? Just instruct the bodyguard instead.”
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara sarcastically remarked,
“At least give us a schedule so we know when to dress for a night in police cells.”
Political Fallout in Mt. Kenya
Gachagua’s allies claim the ongoing purge in Parliamentary Committees is sidelining Mt. Kenya leaders, with their positions handed to politicians outside the region.
Nyandarua Senator John Methu asked,
“If Rigathi Gachagua is the issue, why punish an entire community? Mt. Kenya’s seats are being given to outsiders.”
Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu echoed the sentiment, saying,
“If Methu was removed as Lands Committee chair, why not give the seat to another Mt. Kenya leader instead of ODM?”
Standing Firm
Despite the intimidation, the leaders vowed to continue their oversight role and hold the government accountable for the promises made to Kenyans during the campaign period.
Chaos at Kiambu Court as Police Attempt to Re-Arrest Juja MP George Koimburi
