Drama unfolded in Kirinyaga after residents protested over claims that Senator Kamau Murango was linked to the alleged distribution of branded women's underwear.
The unusual incident has sparked heated reactions online, with a widely circulated video showing a group of residents shouting while displaying and passing around what they claimed were the distributed items.
In the video, a white pair of underwear is held up to the camera bearing the inscription: "NGAAF GVN KAMAU MURANGO 2027".
It seems that political season of vitimbi has come. Pale Kirinyaga a politician branded panties and gave out to residents ?. pic.twitter.com/Iz70ZylxES — Laban Mbunya (@LabanMbunya) September 23, 2026
The sight appeared to leave some residents both amused and angered, with critics questioning why political leaders would distribute underwear when residents are grappling with other pressing needs.
One woman interviewed in the video expressed her frustration, describing the move as embarrassing and arguing that leaders should have provided more useful items, such as shoes.
“Kazi ameshindwa, ndio sasa ameanza kuletea wanawake suruali. Heri ingekuwa kitu ingine kama kiatu. Hiyo ni aibu ndogo ndogo,” she said.
Another man featured in the video appeared equally unimpressed, saying men already buy underwear for their partners and are aware of how much such items cost.
“Mnaletea wanawake wetu suruali na tunawanunulia. Na tunajua bei,” he said.
He went on to argue that the boy child was being overlooked, questioning why similar attention had not been directed towards men if underwear was considered an appropriate form of assistance.
Another resident turned his criticism towards the senator's role, arguing that Murango should distinguish between the responsibilities of a senator and those of a Woman Representative.
He noted that projects associated with the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) fall under the Woman Representative's office, while the senator's mandate includes oversight and representation.
The resident insisted that constituents elected the senator to pursue development resources rather than distribute underwear.
“Kazi ambayo tulimpea si kuleta hapa suruali, lakini kazi yake ni kutafuta pesa kutoka National Government aletee county government,” he said.
However, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina challenged the claims, saying that anyone alleging that NGAAF-branded merchandise was being distributed should provide clear evidence, including footage showing those involved.
“If you see anyone purporting to distribute NGAAF merchandise, please send hard evidence. A video of the people distributing capturing their faces and handing the merchandise around, with NGAAF branding visible,” Maina wrote.
She also called for photographs of any merchandise allegedly left with recipients and said those submitting evidence should be prepared to record a statement with the police. Maina further stated that a reward of Sh50,000 would be offered for evidence.
The controversy comes amid heightened political activity in Kirinyaga ahead of the 2027 General Election, with local leaders facing increasing scrutiny over their conduct, public engagements and political activities.
