Justin Muturi angrily kicks out MCA Kiruga Thuku from polling center for wearing UDA party colours

DP Leader Justin Muturi (2nd from right) kicks out MCA Kiruga Thuku (in yellow) for donning party colours [Courtesy/Facebook]

Tensions escalated in Mbeere North after Chinga Ward MCA Thuku Kiruga was ejected from a polling station by DP leader Justin Muturi for allegedly violating electoral regulations by wearing UDA party-branded colours and allegedly attempting to bribe voters.

The incident occurred early in the morning at Siakago Polling Centre as voting was underway.

In photos seen by TNX Africa, the MCA arrived dressed in bright yellow attire clearly associated with the UDA party, contrary to election rules that require agents, observers and voters to maintain strict neutrality within polling stations.

Muturi criticised the MCA's conduct, pointing out that Siakago is a key polling centre with a high number of registered voters, including candidate Wamuthende himself.

"An MCA from Nyeri, Kiruga Thuku, travelled all the way to Siakago dressed in full UDA party colours right inside a polling centre, which is illegal. Election Day is not a campaign stage, and polling stations are not theatres for party branding," Muturi said.

"So I made it very clear - not here, not today - and he was removed from the station as required, because the rules of the land must be obeyed."

Presiding officers reportedly noticed the violation shortly after Kiruga checked in.

After a brief consultation with security officials, he was asked to leave to avoid influencing voters or creating the impression of partisan activity inside the station.

Eyewitnesses said the MCA initially protested, insisting that the outfit choice was accidental and not intended to sway voters.

However, electoral officials maintained that regulations must be applied uniformly to ensure a campaign-free voting environment.

Kiruga was later allowed to return after changing into neutral clothing, and voting continued without further disruption.

Election officials in Mbeere urged all party agents to familiarise themselves with polling-day guidelines to prevent similar incidents.

While voting began peacefully across the constituency, pockets of tension were reported as the day progressed.

More to follow