Nyeri County, Kenya — Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria was compelled to abruptly end his speech and leave the funeral of renowned politician Maina Wanjigi, father of businessman Jimmy Wanjigi, in Nyeri County.
The incident unfolded when a section of mourners began chanting anti-Ruto slogans, creating a tense atmosphere.
The funeral, initially a somber occasion to honor the life and legacy of Maina Wanjigi, quickly turned tumultuous as the chants grew louder.
The slogans, critical of President William Ruto, disrupted the proceedings and led to heightened emotions among those in attendance.
Witnesses reported that Kuria, who had been invited to deliver a eulogy, attempted to calm the crowd but was ultimately forced to abandon his speech.
Security personnel swiftly intervened to escort him out of the venue, ensuring his safety amidst the growing unrest.
This incident comes just days after a series of protests in various parts of the country were marred by violence and looting.
What began as peaceful demonstrations by youth quickly escalated when infiltrators, described by officials as “goons,” began vandalizing property and stealing goods from businesses.
The protests were initially organized to voice grievances over economic hardships and government policies but were overshadowed by the chaos and destruction that ensued.
BREAKING NEWS
— Omwamba 🇰🇪 (@omwambaKE) July 5, 2024
CS Moses Kuria forced to cut short his speech and leave funeral of Politician Maina Wanjigi who's Jimmy Wanjigi's Father in Nyeri County after some mourners started chanting Anti -Ruto slogans! pic.twitter.com/IYDPxUYn45
Political analysts suggest that the unrest at Maina Wanjigi’s funeral and the recent protests reflect a growing discontent among certain segments of the population with the current administration.
The anti-Ruto sentiments expressed at the funeral highlight the political tensions simmering beneath the surface in Kenya.As the nation processes these events, the call for calm and unity remains paramount.
Leaders from various political factions have urged restraint and peaceful dialogue to address the underlying issues fueling the unrest.
The disruption at the funeral of Maina Wanjigi serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Kenya’s political landscape and the need for constructive engagement to bridge divides and foster national cohesion.