Kenyan official arrested over alleged plot targeting Ruto’s motorcade
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Kenyans.co.ke
Kenyan police have arrested Mwale Obed Mahanga, Deputy Speaker of the Trans-Nzoia County Assembly and elected representative for Matisi, over an alleged plot targeting William Ruto’s motorcade in Kitale. Governor George Natembeya says the official is also accused of funding disruptions at rallies, according to Kenyans.co.ke.
County MP and Deputy Speaker of the Trans Nzoia Assembly Obed Mwale Mahanga was arrested in Kenya on 3 November. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya confirmed his arrest and said he was accused of trying to block President William Ruto’s motorcade in Kitale, according to Kenyans.co.ke.
Natembeya said Mahanga was due to appear in court on 3 November at 9am. The elected official is also accused of funding groups tasked with disrupting Kenya Kwanza rallies, Ruto’s political coalition, in the county. Volunteer lawyers associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement were expected to represent him.
The incident behind the accusation took place on 16 October, when Ruto’s motorcade and that of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna crossed paths in Kitale. After the president left, Sifuna and Natembeya addressed supporters; police then dispersed the gathering with tear gas. Two police officers were injured and two government vehicles damaged, Kenyans.co.ke reports.
The arrest comes amid tensions between Ruto and Natembeya. On 10 October, the president accused the governor of blocking projects in Kenya, according to William Ruto’s accusation against George Natembeya.
