Members of the Thika business community recently shut down their businesses and held a procession to honor their late colleague, Mrs. Joyce Wambui Githitu, and to protest the rising insecurity in the area.
The community presented a petition to the area’s security chiefs, expressing their concerns about the increasing incidents of crime and violence. This move comes amidst suspicions of coordinated strategies aimed at intimidating residents and influencing the outcome of the General Election.
Evidence and Context ¶
The murder of Joyce Githitu has highlighted the contradictions in Thika, a town that was once referred to as the "Birmingham of Kenya." Despite being a major industrial and commercial hub, the town has been plagued by issues such as potholes, hawkers, garbage, and unfinished projects.
The community has criticized the influence of illiterate Matatu owners and operators, who seem to dictate the town’s agenda. The governor, William Kabogo, has been accused of bribing these individuals to influence the rest of the community.
Response and Consequences ¶
The situation in Thika has led to a decline in the town’s standards, with many investors opting not to operate in the area due to the prevailing conditions. The community has been advised to stop contributing money to churches and to be cautious of politicians who use these platforms to solicit votes.
The murder of Joyce Githitu has sparked outrage, with many calling for improved security measures and an end to the intimidation tactics used by certain groups. The community is urging the authorities to take action and address the underlying issues that have led to the town’s decline.
