Passaris Demands Justice After Kawira Mwangaza Injured in Police Clash

Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has strongly condemned the police over an incident that left former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza hospitalised following a violent disruption of a prayer rally in Meru County.

The clash occurred on Sunday, May 18, 2025, in Kigucwa, Tigania East, where Mwangaza was leading an interdenominational prayer event. According to Passaris, the police lobbed tear gas canisters into the crowd, one of which was allegedly hurled directly into Mwangaza’s car. Her driver sustained serious injuries during the confrontation.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, May 19, Passaris decried what she termed as “excessive and unprovoked use of force,” calling the act a clear violation of the right to peaceful assembly and worship.

“That a tear gas canister was hurled into her car on Mother’s Day and again yesterday is a shocking display of state-sanctioned brutality,” she wrote, warning that democracy is at risk when law enforcers become aggressors.

The former governor’s supporters had gathered peacefully for the prayer and aid event, where Mwangaza had planned to distribute essential items to locals. However, chaos erupted when police blocked her convoy and began dispersing the crowd.

This is not the first time one of Mwangaza’s events has ended in confrontation. Just a week earlier, another gathering in Igoji was disrupted by police despite claims that she had secured the necessary permits.

Passaris now demands accountability and justice, urging the government to uphold constitutional rights and protect civilians rather than intimidate them.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.