Nyandarua Woman Representative Jane Kihara has claimed that persistent arrests have forced her to avoid speaking about President William Ruto, despite her active role in the opposition.
Speaking during a funeral service in Nyandarua County that was attended by top opposition leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kihara said she has been repeatedly targeted by law enforcement whenever she publicly criticises the President or his administration.
She told mourners that the arrests have created fear and intimidation, making it difficult for her to freely express her political views.
Kihara stated that although she remains firmly in the opposition, the constant run-ins with police have compelled her to change how she addresses national issues.
She said each attempt to speak about President Ruto has allegedly resulted in her being arrested, a situation she described as frustrating and unfair to leaders elected to represent the people.
The legislator raised concerns about the state of democracy and freedom of expression in the country, arguing that opposition leaders are increasingly being silenced through intimidation and harassment.
According to Kihara, leaders should be allowed to criticise the government without fear, as this is part of democratic accountability.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was among the opposition figures present, echoed similar sentiments, saying that arrests and intimidation of opposition leaders undermine democratic principles. He called on the government to respect the rule of law and allow political pluralism to thrive.
The funeral service brought together several opposition leaders from the region, turning the event into a platform for political statements on governance, democracy and leadership.
Many speakers expressed dissatisfaction with the current administration, citing economic hardships and what they described as shrinking democratic space.
Kihara’s remarks add to growing complaints from opposition leaders who claim they are being targeted for their political stance.
The government, however, has previously maintained that arrests are conducted lawfully and are not politically motivated.
As the country edges closer to the 2027 general election, political temperatures continue to rise, with opposition leaders vowing to push back against what they term intimidation and suppression.
