BY ALBERT NYAKUNDI
Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has been condemned by several leaders from the region as well as the Professional Criminologists Association of Kenya-PCAK.
This is after contravening the laid down protocols by President Uhuru to tame spread of Covid-19.
Kiraitu on Thursday held a public rally at Maua township where he distributed facemasks.
Locals and politicians have in equal measure called for the arrest and prosecution of the Governor as well as mandatory quarantine.
This is after pictures went viral where he is seen addressing a multitude in Maua town.
Meru Women Representative Kawira Mwangaza said Kiraitu should be arrested and subjected to mandatory quarantine.
“His age also falls in the category of people who should work from home. Why risk people’s lives distributing masks. He did it intentionally, why? Because he had the loudest speakers with him. Useless and Hitler leadership. I think his best description is #killergovernor.” Mwangaza said.
Former Central Imenti lawmaker Gitobu Imanyara castigated the governor’s action.
Gitobu said it is irresponsible on the part of the Governor to disregard the law designed to prevent the spread of an illness with no known cure.
Gitobu said, “What is appalling us is that despite the national outrage he has not even apologized or shown any remorse for his criminal behavior.”
Thara-Nithi Deputy Governor Francis Kagwima said while Kiraitu’s action may be noble, he must come up with a strategy to distribute facemasks without exposing residents to infections.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Edward Mbugua told Hot News he was not aware of the rally.
“Am sorry I have not seen any photo concerning the rally.” Mbugua said through a text message.
It is also not clear how Kiraitu’s behavior escaped the attention of the county’s security committee.
Efforts to get Kiraitu’s comment were futile. He did not respond to our inquiries.
Professional Criminologists Association of Kenya founding chairman Munene Mugambi has called for the police to swiftly investigate Kiraitu’s conduct and take appropriate action.
A resident Victoria Kawira also condemned the Governor.