Victor Elvis Mugambi
The Embu Council of Elders, known locally as Nyagi ya Ndiriri, has officially distanced itself from a recent meeting held at Nembure Stadium. During this gathering, certain elders from Embu, Meru, Tharaka Nithi, and Isiolo reportedly endorsed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as the spokesperson for the region. However, the council’s chairman, Andrew Ireri, clarified that the elders associated with Nyagi ya Ndiriri were not recognized members of the official council and therefore lacked the authority to speak on behalf of the entire elders’ fraternity.
Official Stance and Community Concerns
Ireri stated that the meeting could not be considered an official endorsement because it did not involve all recognized elders. He insisted that the council cannot support resolutions or political declarations made without its authorization. In his remarks, Ireri condemned the conduct of the meeting, alleging that it was marred by misconduct and financial irregularities. He claimed some elders involved in mobilizing for the event had accepted money, but that the funds did not reach all expected participants, raising questions about the integrity of the proceedings.
Furthermore, Ireri expressed disapproval of hosting such discussions at Nembure Stadium, which he described as a sacred site. He argued that serious community and regional issues should be addressed in more appropriate forums that respect the cultural and spiritual significance of the location. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions within regional leadership and the role of traditional elders in contemporary politics, especially in a region as dynamic as Embu.
