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Machakos County is reeling from incidents of violence that engulfed its capital during the recent protests against the 2024 Finance Bill.
Governor Wavinya Ndeti has broken her silence, claiming that armed goons were hired to loot businesses and destroy properties in Machakos.
Addressing journalists in the town of Athi River, Governor Ndeti stressed that the riots, which resulted in the destruction of public and private property, were instigated by hired terrorists not associated with local residents.
The victims of this organised mayhem included the Machakos County headquarters, several vehicles, and the local assembly building.
Additional targets include the offices of Kangundo MP Fabian Kyule and various county government facilities, leaving a path of destruction and economic burden.
Law enforcement agencies engaged in heavy fighting with the insurgents throughout the day, using tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Governor Ndeti expressed his dismay at the terrible damage while asking members of the community to cooperate with the authorities in identifying and arresting those responsible.
"We must protect our communities and infrastructure against such acts," Ndeti declared, stressing the need for vigilance among residents to prevent future incidents.
He stressed the importance of differentiating between genuine protests and corrupt agendas aimed at disrupting peace and development in Machakos County.
While the investigation into the incident continues, local authorities are working hard to restore normalcy and repair the damage caused during this tragic event.