MP Gitonga Mukunji Held Over Alleged Terror Links After Saba Saba Arrest

Manyatta Member of Parliament Gitonga Mukunji remains in police custody as authorities seek an extension to his detention to facilitate investigations into alleged terrorism-related offences. 

The arrest, made during the recent Saba Saba demonstrations, has ignited a national debate surrounding the balance between national security and political dissent. Mukunji, alongside journalist James Mbochi and boda boda rider Stanley Mbuthi, was apprehended on 7 July in Juja, Kiambu County, while participating in protests commemorating the historic Saba Saba pro-democracy movement. They were presented before Magistrate Richard Koech at the Kahawa Law Courts, where prosecutors requested a 14-day extension of their detention to allow for further investigations. 

The hearing was deferred until the following day, with the magistrate ordering that Mukunji receive medical attention at Nairobi Hospital before being returned to Muthaiga Police Station. According to an affidavit filed by Chief Inspector Desterio Omukanga of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspects are under investigation for allegedly financing and facilitating acts of terrorism, including conspiracy to commit offences under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. 

Police allege that Mukunji was found in possession of a diary labelled “KYPA,” which purportedly contains names and monetary figures linked to individuals involved in criminal activities across Nairobi and Embu counties. The diary also allegedly mentions Evans Ngare Njiru, alias Balala, who is currently at large and wanted in connection with violent incidents.

The prosecution argues that Mukunji’s political influence poses a risk to the integrity of the investigation, raising concerns about potential witness interference. Investigators maintain that they require additional time to record statements from victims and witnesses across multiple counties, analyse mobile phone data, and review CCTV footage from locations allegedly vandalised or looted during the protests. The application for extended detention also cites the need for forensic financial reviews and cyber analysis.

Defence lawyers, led by Kibe Mungai and Ndegwa Njiru, have challenged the legitimacy of the application, questioning the rationale behind presenting the case before the Anti-Terrorism Court. During cross-examination, Omukanga conceded that no formal charges have been determined, raising further doubts about the legal basis for continued detention. 

The defence contends that the proceedings amount to political intimidation and an abuse of judicial process. Mukunji, a vocal ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has publicly dismissed the allegations as baseless. Speaking outside the courtroom, he reaffirmed his commitment to defending the rights of Kenyans and urged youth in Embu to refrain from destructive behaviour. 

He said, “Of course, the charges that have been presented in court will not carry any weight. I want to assure people that I'm safe, and I would like to encourage our youths not to destroy property. I will not be intimidated because I will continue defending my people, but the loss of property and businesses and loss of life is something that we have to stop.”

The circumstances surrounding Mukunji’s arrest have also come under scrutiny. Njiru said that the MP was detained at Kibii Police Station at 3:53pm on 7 July, before being transferred to Juja Police Station by DCI officers. The Officer Commanding Station reportedly confirmed that the booking was "for the exclusive purpose of holding him,” with no formal charges filed at the time. Njiru has raised concerns over the lack of transparency regarding the MP’s whereabouts and the handling of his personal vehicle, which remains impounded.

The arrest occurs amidst a backdrop of nationwide unrest during this year’s Saba Saba commemorations. According to the National Police Service (NPS), 567 individuals were arrested during the protests, which turned violent in several regions. Official figures indicate that 11 people lost their lives and 63 sustained injuries, including both civilians and police officers. The NPS has urged members of the public to report any information regarding individuals involved in criminal activities, reiterating its commitment to maintaining law and order.

The Saba Saba demonstrations, historically significant in Kenya's pro-democracy movement, have recently become a focal point for widespread discontent over the rising cost of living and contentious tax policies implemented by the current administration. This year’s protests saw a resurgence of public outcry, leading to clashes with law enforcement and heightened political tensions.