Embu town was brought to a standstill on Tuesday July 8, 2025 in the morning as angry supporters of Manyatta MP John Gitonga Mukunji poured into the streets, paralyzing businesses and public transport in a fiery demand for his immediate release.

The protests erupted barely hours after Mukunji was moved from Muthaiga Police Station to the Kahawa Law Courts, where he is expected to face charges of allegedly handing out cash to demonstrators during the Saba Saba protests on Monday, July 7.

Mukunji was arrested along the Thika Superhighway at the Toll area in Juja Sub-County. He was reportedly in the company of James Ikuwa Mbochi, who claimed to be an Inooro journalist, and Stanley Mbuthia Wanjiru, a boda boda rider.

News of the MP’s arrest spread like wildfire, triggering outrage across Embu County. Protesters, many wielding placards and chanting “Release Mukunji!” clogged the town, prompting a heavy police presence and the use of teargas to disperse the swelling crowds.  

 “Mukunji is innocent! He is being victimized  for standing with the people. We will not allow the government to continue intimidating those who are opposed to its style of leadership. Release Mukunji” one protester who requested for anonymity shouted.

Shops remained shuttered as traders feared looting. Streets were deserted. Transport was crippled, with many workers forced to return home. Several schools near the CBD turned children away, citing safety concerns.

Police struggled to contain the situation as residents barricaded roads and lit bonfires. The tension marked a level of unrest Embu hasn’t witnessed in years.

Leaders allied to Mukunji condemned the arrest and urged for calm but emphasized that efforts to secure the MP’s release were underway. Meanwhile, protesters vowed to keep up the pressure.