What’s former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga upto?
A video has emerged showing Maina Njenga, the former leader of the Mungiki sect, leading a group of youths in singing peace songs.
This move led to speculation about a possible resurgence of the once-powerful militia group that was notorious for its brutal tactics.
Many are recalling the dark days of Mungiki’s reign of terror, which saw the group accused of extortion, murder, and even beheadings.
The group was outlawed in Kenya in 2002, leading to a crackdown by the authorities that resulted in the arrest of Njenga and many of his followers.
As news of his reemergence spread, Kenyans on Twitter (KOT) reacted with mixed emotions.
Some users expressed concern and even fear about the possible implications, with many speculating he could be positioning himself as the next Kikuyu next of kin.
“Maina Njenga ‘s influence in the mountain cannot be swept under the carpet. The reformed Mungiki leader singing in a local dialect is sending shivers down people’s spine,” tweeted Edgar.
Maina Njenga 's influence in the mountain cannot be swept under the carpet. The reformed Mungiki leader singing in a local dialect is sending shivers down people's spines.
— EDGAR 🇰🇪 (@edgarwabwire_) April 16, 2023
“Only one man is a true Mau Mau among the Kikuyu, that man is Maina Njenga and not the big and loud mouthed DP Rigathi Gachagua. Maina Njenga is back and you will see DCI sent to him because a certain child obsessed with power doesn’t want a rival in Central Kenya,” tweeted another twitter account
https://twitter.com/search?q=%22Maina%20Njenga%22&src=trend_click&vertical=trends
Since then, Njenga has publicly distanced himself from the group and even claimed to have moved on from its violent ways. However, the emergence of this video has brought with it question marks.
Maina Njenga reamerges amid the announcement by the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party leader Raila Odinga that anti-government protests will resume after the Ramadan event and will go on alongside negotiations with the government.
The Opposition leader said the coalition supports ongoing talks but will hold demos as dialogue proceeds.
“Mazungumzo iendelee na maandamano sambamba, dawa ya moto ni moto,” Raila said.
Maina Njenga has on two attempts unsuccessfully contested for a political seat.
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