Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire on Friday toured the County Headquarters office block that was set ablaze during anti-finance bill protests earlier this week.
The destructive protests also targeted two other government offices, including United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and resulted in over ten private and county vehicles being torched.
Governor Mbarire described the destruction as an act of arson, claiming it was well-planned and executed by hired goons who infiltrated the initially peaceful protest led by Gen Zs. She accused local political adversaries of orchestrating the attacks to undermine her administration.
The governor alleged that the planners paid Sh. 350,000 to the goons, including some from neighboring Kirinyaga County, to carry out the attacks. “It is reckless to destroy government property to sabotage service delivery to the people just because of political selfishness,” she stated.
In a direct challenge to her enemies, Mbarire said, “Leave the property and the people of Embu alone and come for me. Deal with me. If you want me to die, kill me, instead of destroying the property and the things people depend on.”
Governor Mbarire confirmed that investigative agencies are working diligently to identify and apprehend the planners and perpetrators of the attacks. She noted that they have been receiving crucial evidence, including photos and video recordings from the public, which will aid in nabbing the culprits.
The financial impact on the county is severe, with losses estimated in the hundreds of millions. An assessment to determine the exact extent of the damage is currently underway. “The county has been taken aback financially, but we shall not be cowed and no one will slow us down,” she asserted.
Despite the setbacks, Governor Mbarire assured the public that the relocation of officers has been completed and that county services will continue uninterrupted.
