By Githeriman on Monday, 19 August 2024
In a dramatic turn of events, former presidential aspirant and businessman Jimi Wanjigi found himself on the wrong side of the law yet again. On Monday, Wanjigi revealed that he had been arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) despite existing court orders prohibiting his detention.
In a strongly worded statement, Wanjigi condemned the arrest as illegal and accused law enforcement agencies of blatantly disregarding the court's directives. The businessman had earlier voluntarily presented himself at the DCI headquarters following a police order linked to his alleged involvement in funding the controversial Nane Nane protests.
"The DCI have illegally arrested me despite numerous court orders barring the same arrest," Wanjigi declared, voicing his frustration at the ongoing legal battle.
Confrontation with the Police
The arrest followed a tense encounter between Wanjigi and police officers at the DCI headquarters, a moment that was captured on video and quickly went viral online. In the footage, Wanjigi is seen confronting the officers, refusing to board a police vehicle, and forcefully asserting his rights. "Do not order me, do not touch me!" he shouted, before ultimately complying and entering the vehicle.
Wanjigi’s arrest comes just days after he clashed with law enforcement over accusations of financing the Nane Nane protests. On August 8, authorities pointed fingers at the businessman for his alleged role in backing the demonstrations, which have been a thorn in the side of President William Ruto's administration.
Outspoken Critic of Government Debt
Wanjigi, who has never shied away from controversy, has been a vocal critic of the current government’s economic policies. He has repeatedly slammed the Ruto administration for what he describes as reckless borrowing and financial mismanagement. His criticism, particularly of the government's unsustainable loans without parliamentary approval, has made him a target of scrutiny and, now, detention.
The businessman has also publicly condemned a previous raid on his home, calling it an attempt to intimidate him and his family. Despite these challenges, Wanjigi remains defiant, vowing to continue holding the government accountable for its actions.
Wanjigi, a known ally of opposition leader Raila Odinga, has pledged to persist in his fight against what he views as the government's imprudence. He is set to be detained at Kamukunji Police Station until his arraignment at the Milimani Senior Courts Magistrate on August 20, 2024.
