Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvuria (left) and Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya. Photo/ Lawrence Ongaro.
By Lawrence Ongaro
Supporters of Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a clashed during the launch of the construction of Thika Stadium, overshadowing a government event attended by top national leaders.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held in Thika on Monday, February 16, 2025, was presided over by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvuria, who were accompanied by local leaders, including area MP Alice Ng’ang’a.
Political rivalry erupts
Tensions flared when supporters of Governor Wamatangi and those backing MP Ng’ang’a engaged in heated verbal exchanges, creating a charged atmosphere that left visiting leaders stunned.
The confrontation highlighted simmering political rivalry in the region, even as leaders sought to focus attention on the development project expected to boost sports and economic growth in the area.
Despite the disruption, government officials proceeded with the launch, emphasizing the importance of the project to local residents and the country’s sports sector.
Government outlines stadium project
CS Tuya said the stadium will be constructed using public funds in collaboration with the Kenya Defence Forces, assuring traders and residents that their livelihoods would not be disrupted.
“Business people will continue with their activities as usual without any problems. Residents of Thika will also get employment opportunities during the construction,” she said.
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Sports CS Mvuria said the Sh850 million facility will accommodate about 10,000 spectators and significantly improve sports infrastructure in the region.
He added that the project will include modern amenities such as swimming pools and basketball courts, which are expected to promote sports development and nurture young talent.
Leaders defend development agenda
MP Ng’ang’a, who received loud cheers from her supporters, said she had initiated several development projects in Thika and declared her intention to contest the Kiambu gubernatorial seat in 2027, referring to herself as “Mama Simba.”
She pledged to protect local traders from eviction and vowed to push for this year’s 2026 Jamhuri Day celebrations to be held at Thika Stadium.
Read more: Lawyers, residents oppose court transfer from Thika to Gatundu
East African Legislative Assembly member Maina Karobia welcomed the government’s decision to construct the new stadium, saying the project would benefit residents and help develop youth talents in sports.
“We urge citizens to continue supporting the government in the construction of the stadium, which will help nurture the talents of young people interested in sports,” he said.
Rosemary Kirika, who represented Governor Wamatangi, said Kiambu County was ready to collaborate closely with the national government to ensure successful implementation of the project.
She assured traders operating near the stadium that they would not be displaced, noting that the development would be undertaken in partnership with the national government to benefit the wider sports community.
The Thika Stadium project is expected to boost local economic activity, create jobs, and enhance sports infrastructure, even as political rivalry among local leaders continues to shape the region’s political landscape.
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