Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba has deleted photos showing her in the company of former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga following a wave of public backlash on social media.
The images, which were shared on her X account, showed the legislator with Njenga alongside a brief message indicating that she had met him and was conveying his greetings to the public.
The post quickly drew widespread attention, particularly on X, where many Kenyans questioned her decision to publicly associate with a figure whose past remains controversial.
Critics argued that Njenga’s history continues to evoke painful memories linked to violence and intimidation, making the meeting inappropriate for an elected leader.
Within a short time, comment sections were flooded with negative reactions. Several users accused the MP of poor political judgment, suggesting that her actions conflicted with her vocal stance on governance, integrity, and accountability. Others speculated that the move was politically motivated, driven more by ambition than principle.
As the criticism intensified, Wamuchomba deleted the images from her X account. However, screenshots had already been widely shared, allowing the discussion to continue across various platforms.
On Facebook, where the post initially remained visible, more Kenyans weighed in, with some recounting personal experiences tied to the Mungiki era and expressing anger and disappointment over the association.
The incident reignited broader debate about why political leaders continue to engage with individuals whose past actions remain a source of trauma for many citizens.
Some commentators warned that such associations could alienate voters, particularly those affected by organised violence in parts of Nairobi, Central Kenya, and the Rift Valley.
As of now, the MP has not issued a detailed public statement addressing the controversy, leaving many watching closely for her next move.
