UPA demands release of Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, say his whereabouts unknown

Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji. (Photo: Gitonga Mukunji/X)

By Bashir Mbuthia
Monday, July 7, 2025

Reports indicate that the MP was forced out of his vehicle and apprehended by authorities within Mang'u, Kiambu County, around 3:00 pm.

The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) party has demanded the immediate release of Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who was arrested on Monday afternoon, amid the Saba Saba demonstrations.

Reports indicate that the MP was forced out of his vehicle and apprehended by authorities within Mang'u, Kiambu County, around 3:00 pm.

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In a statement issued by Chairman Nyambega Gisesa, UPA decried the MP's current whereabouts, asserting that he was transferred into the custody of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) after being booked at Kibii Police Station.

"According to reports, he was booked at Kibii Police Station at 1553Hrs vide OB No. 06/07/07/2025, but the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) has confirmed that he was subsequently transferred to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) at Juja Police Station," the UPA statement reads.

"Disturbingly, his current whereabouts remain unknown, and his vehicle is still parked at Kibii Police Station."

UPA added that the Occurrence Book (OB) at Kibii Police Station documents Mukunji's entry but contains no record of his release, raising serious questions about due process and transparency.

The Officer Commanding Station (OCS) indicated that Mukunji was detained solely for holding purposes and may face charges of incitement to violence.

"We are alarmed by reports that the police have withheld critical information from his spouse and advocates, including Njiru Ndegwa, who are currently with his wife seeking answers," said UPA.

"This lack of transparency and apparent disregard for legal rights is unacceptable in a democratic society. We demand the immediate release of Hon. Gitonga Mukunji, full disclosure of his whereabouts, and an end to any attempts to suppress his rights."

The party also called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mukunji's arrest and transfer.

Additionally, UPA expressed sorrow over the killing of several protestors by police during the Saba Saba demonstrations.

In a statement on Monday evening, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed that the protests left 11 people dead, 52 police officers and 11 civilians injured, and at least 19 vehicles, including police, government, and civilian units, damaged. Additionally, 567 people were arrested in various parts of the country.

"We condemn the use of excessive force and violence against demonstrators and stand in solidarity with the families and loved ones of the victims. The UPA Party demands an immediate, transparent investigation into these deaths and accountability for those responsible," the party said.