Residents of Kikuyu Constituency have expressed their disappointment over the ongoing arson and destruction of property case against surveyor Kigathi Kionywe. They argue that the case is politically motivated, citing a lack of concrete evidence to support the allegations.
Kigathi, a businessman-turned-politician, was compelled by locals to contest the Kikuyu Constituency Member of Parliament seat under the KANU party. However, he lost to the incumbent MP and Leader of Majority, Kimani Ichung’wah, due to the strong UDA wave in the region. His legal troubles began when he was arrested on July 10, 2024, at his Kikuyu office. Authorities accused him of orchestrating the arson attack that allegedly destroyed the Kikuyu MP’s offices during the widespread Finance Bill protests in June 2024.
Since his arrest, Kigathi has maintained his innocence, providing evidence that he was not even in Kikuyu town at the time of the incident. Despite this, he was released on cash bail, which was contributed by his supporters. Over the past months, he has appeared in court six times, with each session ending in postponement. The justification given by authorities has consistently been that “the police are still gathering evidence.”
surveyor Kigathi Kionywe outside Kiambu law courts after his release.
This repeated delay has only fueled public frustration. “Where is the evidence? Let the police bring a witness who saw surveyor Kigathi setting fire to the offices,” an angry resident demanded. Others pointed out that the Finance Bill protests were a nationwide movement largely driven by Gen Z activists, while Kigathi himself does not fall into that demographic.
At every public meeting Kigathi attends, the message remains the same: unwavering support from residents. Bishops, Rev, pastors, women and his followers in general have formed prayer groups to intervene spiritually against this high level of criminal allegations. While his political opponents or their representatives face hostility at public gatherings, Kigathi is welcomed with cheers, with locals chanting his name in solidarity.
As Kigathi’s next court appearance on April 14 and 15, 2025, approaches, residents continue to rally behind him. Some have warned against using his close relationship with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as a basis for further persecution. They argue that his growing influence in Mt. Kenya politics has made him a target of the current administration.
Despite the legal battles,
Surveyor Kigathi having a chat with the former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at Rigathi’s Wamunyoro Residence
Kikuyu residents argue that Mr. kigathi is more of a leader than a politician, who is very strict with honouring what he pledges. His speeches always give hope to the future. He does not compromise to any wrong or any injustice. He is not easily coarsed to walk against what he is right for the community. He does not entertain vulgar language, as many politicians do. He hates corruption.He is a humble servant of the people, and the ground is resonating very well with his character. They remain hopeful that Kigathi will be exonerated next week but one and will soon return to serving the community as he has always done. Their message is clear: they stand firmly behind him and demand justice.
Surveyor Kigathi Kionywe at a fundraising event in Kikuyu Constituency.
Surveyor Kigathi strong supporter, who in a recent event, surprised him with his campaign leso that she always carried on her handbag since 2022.
