Noose tightens on MP Mukunji, expected at DCI headquarters
Justice Kizito Magare directed Mukunji to present himself before DCI detectives next Monday, September 21, 2026 as investigations into the violence proceed, making it clear that the court order does not shield the legislator from possible arrest or prosecution.
Manyatta Member of Parliament (MP) Gitonga Mukunji is expected to report to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations headquarters in Nairobi in line with the anticipatory bail court directions granted to him over the violence that erupted during a political meeting at Nembure Stadium in Embu County.
Justice Kizito Magare directed Mukunji to present himself before DCI detectives next Monday, September 21, 2026 as investigations into the violence proceed, making it clear that the court order does not shield the legislator from possible arrest or prosecution.
The MP was granted anticipatory bail of Sh1 million or an alternative cash bail of Sh500,000. He was required to execute the bond or deposit the cash by close of business on September 17, failing which the protection orders would lapse.
The judge also directed Mukunji to report to the DCI on any other Monday when detectives require his attendance.
“The orders do not bar the applicant from being investigated and charged,” the court stated, clarifying that the protection granted relates to anticipated arrest and detention and does not amount to immunity from criminal proceedings.
Justice Magare certified Mukunji’s application as urgent and directed that it be served on the Inspector-General of Police, the DCI and the Director of Public Prosecutions. The respondents have until September 23 to file their responses, with the matter scheduled for directions before the Embu trial court on September 29.
Mukunji’s lawyer, Elijah Ireri, told the court that his client faced an “imminent threat of arbitrary arrest and detention”, despite not having received a formal summons, invitation or complaint.
The advocate said the circumstances surrounding the anticipated arrest, including the possible offences under investigation, remained unclear.
The case follows violence at a UDA delegates’ meeting at Nembure Stadium attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire and other political leaders.
Police said one person died, several people were injured and six vehicles were torched during the unrest. Three police officers and a civilian were also reported injured, while the DCI said two suspects had been arrested as investigations continued.
Police officers were subsequently deployed near Mukunji’s rural home in Mutunduri amid reports that detectives were seeking to arrest him.
The MP has denied organising the violence or mobilising youths to disrupt the meeting and, through his lawyers, has called for an impartial investigation.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has separately linked the violence to alleged distribution of money at the meeting, claiming Sh350 million had been allocated for political mobilisation in Mt Kenya East. Those claims remain contested.
