Police Detains Trans Nzoia Deputy Speaker Over Supposed Ruto Motorcade Disruption

Trans Nzoia County Deputy Speaker Mwale Obed Mahanga was arrested on Monday, November 3, over allegations that he was involved in a plan to block President William Ruto’s motorcade during his visit to Kitale last month.

Mahanga is accused of plotting to obstruct the President’s convoy during the tour on Friday, October 16. Details of the alleged plan and the circumstances surrounding his arrest had not been fully established by the time of reporting.

His arrest was confirmed by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who has been involved in a public political feud with President Ruto.

Natembeya said Mahanga was being held at Kapenguria Police Station, where he spent the night as he awaited arraignment.

In a statement, the governor said the deputy speaker was expected to appear in court at 9am on Tuesday, November 4. He also outlined some of the allegations facing the county official.

“Obed Mwale has been locked up in a cell, waiting for arraignment in court tomorrow at 9am. Some of the charges are obstructing Ruto’s motorcade while in Kitale,” Natembeya stated.

The governor’s remarks brought attention to the arrest, particularly because of the political differences between him and the Head of State. However, the allegations against Mahanga remain matters to be addressed through the legal process.

Footage obtained by Kenyans.co.ke showed a number of Mahanga’s supporters and members of his legal team arriving at Kapenguria Police Station following news of his detention.

The group reportedly sought to secure his release as he remained in police custody. Their presence drew attention to the case, with supporters seeking clarity on the reasons for his arrest and the next steps in the legal process.

It was not immediately clear whether Mahanga had been formally charged or whether investigators intended to pursue additional allegations beyond the reported obstruction of the President’s motorcade.

The case is expected to draw further attention when the deputy speaker appears in court, where the prosecution may outline the accusations and the court will consider the next steps.

LINK: https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/129075-trans-nzoia-deputy-speaker-arrested-over-alleged-plot-block-ruto-motorcade?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=ME&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAcGRvZgRzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA80MDk5NjI2MjMwODU2MDkAAR9d8eQ1agcN1F0ue3H4NxKgfTOyRe_m_BwibnOVq8Bc3tL4RwxhraF0O_9WZg_aem_ywRD1C9Dd_SjjBdyo3is1A