Ichung’wah Accuses Kameme FM Journalist Of Fueling Ethnic Tensions

By Staff Writer

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has accused a vernacular radio journalist of fueling ethnic tensions, linking the broadcaster to what he describes as a broader campaign of incitement in Kikuyu Constituency.

In a letter dated April 10, 2026 to Inspector General Douglas Kanja, Ichung’wah claims a Kameme FM morning show journalist is being used to push divisive messaging.

The Kikuyu MP alleges the journalist’s platform is part of a coordinated effort tied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whom he accuses of orchestrating unrest in the constituency.

The claims add to renewed scrutiny over the role of vernacular radio stations in political discourse, particularly in regions experiencing heightened tensions and ethnically charged political contestation.

“The last two weeks have seen Rigathi Gachagua embark on a deliberate campaign of incitement, hate and violence targeting the people of Kikuyu Constituency,” Ichung’wah states in the letter.

He further claimed the use of vernacular radio mirrors past cases where media platforms were exploited to spread ethnic hostility, warning that such messaging risks inflaming tensions among local audiences.

Ichung’wah linked the alleged incitement to recent public appearances by Gachagua, including remarks made during a funeral in Laikipia and a memorial service in Ol Kalou.

He also accuseed Gachagua of mobilising supporters from Kiambu, Murang’a, Kirinyaga and Nyandarua counties, claiming the groups are being coordinated to stage unrest in Kikuyu Town.

The Majority Leader cited previous incidents, including the torching of Kikuyu NG-CDF offices in June 2024 and destruction targeting public offices and private residences in June 2025.

“These are not allegations; they are matters of public record with arrests made and evidence documented,” Ichung’wah states, urging security agencies to act on the information.

He warned against any withdrawal of police officers from Kikuyu Town, arguing that such a move would expose residents, businesses and critical infrastructure to potential violence and organised attacks.

Ichung’wah further alleged that Gachagua has sought to ethnically profile security officers, claiming it is a deliberate attempt to delegitimise law enforcement operations within the constituency.

In the letter, he also claimed organised groups have been directed to target specific businesses, including those linked to his family, as part of a coordinated campaign of intimidation.

The MP urged the National Police Service to maintain a strong security presence, emphasising the need to protect lives and property amid what he describes as escalating threats.

Efforts to reach the journalist and allies of Gachagua for comment were unsuccessful, even as the political temparatures continue to rise ahead of a planned weekend rally by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) in Kikuyu town.