In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- Jimi Wanjigi reappears after a two-day siege at his Muthaiga residence, condemning the raid as politically motivated.
- He criticizes the government and police for vandalizing his home and assaulting his family.
Politician and businessman Jimi Wanjigi has emerged from hiding following a two-day siege at his Muthaiga residence, which his family and lawyers have denounced as a political witch-hunt.
Addressing the press at his home, Wanjigi condemned the government and police for what he described as vandalizing his property and assaulting his wife and children during the operation.
Reflecting on a similar raid seven years ago that lasted three days, Wanjigi criticized the ongoing harassment by law enforcement, insisting that all they need to do is issue a summons, and he will comply.
In a light-hearted remark, he noted that despite extensive searches, the police were unable to find him inside his home then, and the same had occurred now.
He urged them to stop wasting their time, reiterating that he would appear voluntarily if summoned.
Read Also:
Nane Nane’ Protests: Nairobi CBD Routes Blocked as Police Clash with Demonstrators
Police Recover Items Linked to ‘Nane Nane’ Protests From Wanjigi’s Car
Nane Nane’ Protests: 174 Arrested, Police Say They Were Unnotified
Wanjigi further claimed that the recent raid was politically motivated, attributing it to his support for the Gen Z-led protests, which he believes angered those in power.
He took aim at President William Ruto, accusing him of trying to suppress his rights while dismissing allegations that he was funding the anti-government protests.
Wanjigi clarified that his financial contributions were solely for the release of arrested protesters.
However, he expressed willingness to support the demonstrations if given the opportunity, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring protesters are equipped with essentials like water and toothpaste to withstand tear gas.
Wanjigi also condemned the intrusion of politics into personal spaces, calling on Ruto to keep political disputes out of his home.
He lamented the assault on his wife and children, as well as the vandalism and theft that occurred during the raid, questioning how these actions related to the political conflicts being played out publicly.
He expressed concern for the many young lives lost since the protests began in June, highlighting the grief of their mothers and questioning why the government would harm people’s children for simply expressing their political views, as protected under Article 37, the right to demonstrate.