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| Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi confronting UDA Agent |
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has called for the immediate arrest of former former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, following allegations of violence in Mbeere North.
Cherargei has accused Muturi of assault and election malpractice, claiming that the former Attorney General was involved in physically attacking a voter during an altercation at Siakago polling station.
In a statement released on Thursday, November 27, Cherargei demanded that Muturi face charges of aggravated assault and election malpractice, describing his actions as deeply embarrassing given his high-profile history in Kenyan politics.
The lawmaker expressed shock that someone with such a distinguished background—having served as the Attorney General, Speaker of the National Assembly, judicial officer, and member of Parliament—would engage in such behavior.
“I am calling for Justin Muturi’s immediate arrest for aggravated assault and election malpractice. His actions at Siakago polling station were completely unacceptable and a violation of the law,” Cherargei said. He further urged the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) to consider removing Muturi from the roll of advocates, stating that his actions tarnish the legal profession’s reputation.
The incident in question occurred after a video surfaced showing Muturi clashing with Thuku Kirunga, the agent of United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Wa Muthende.
The disagreement began when Muturi objected to Kirunga wearing a yellow jacket, which he argued represented UDA party colours. Muturi’s objection escalated when he confronted another individual, a local accompanying Kirunga, resulting in an intense exchange.
In a subsequent press briefing, Muturi defended his actions, claiming that it was unlawful for Kirunga, a UDA politician, to wear party colours at the polling station.
He explained that as an authorized agent or observer, Kirunga should have worn neutral clothing, as per the electoral law.
“The law is clear,” Muturi said. “I told him he could not wear party colours at the polling station. If he was there as an observer or agent, he needed to wear clothes that did not represent any political party.”
He also stated that despite raising the issue with the presiding officer, no action was taken, which led him to intervene directly.
Muturi’s actions have sparked a wave of criticism, with many viewing his conduct as a breach of electoral conduct and professionalism.
Cherargei’s demand for action reflects the growing concerns over the integrity of the election process and the conduct of public figures in such sensitive environments.
