Gathoni Wamuchomba, the MP for Githunguri, on Saturday, March 14, maintained that she did not owe anyone an apology for wearing a UDA scarf while condoling with Karungo wa Thang’wa, the Senator for Kiambu.
The lawmaker was responding to public backlash after a photo surfaced showing her wearing the yellow scarf while posing next to a portrait of the senator’s late mother, Lucia Wangui.
Some Kenyans also questioned why the MP appeared to be smiling in the photo despite the solemn nature of the condolence visit.
MP Wamuchomba Stands by UDA Scarf During Thang’wa Condolence Visit. Photo: Courtesy.
However, images shared by Wamuchomba indicated that she only wore the scarf briefly while posing for photographs and while signing the condolence book.
She later removed it before speaking privately with the bereaved senator.
A section of Kenyans criticised the decision by Gathoni Wamuchomba to wear a UDA scarf during the condolence visit, arguing that introducing political symbolism during a mourning period was inappropriate.
The criticism was amplified by the political dynamics surrounding Karungo wa Thang’wa. Although the Kiambu Senator was elected on a UDA ticket, he later fell out with the party and its leader, William Ruto.
Thang’wa has since been associated with leaders allied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Some social media users argued that the presence of party colours during a condolence visit created an uncomfortable contrast with the sombre mood expected at such gatherings.
However, others came to Wamuchomba’s defence, noting that several leaders who visited the senator’s home were also seen wearing caps linked to Gachagua’s DCP outfit.
Supporters therefore argued that political symbols were not unique to the MP’s attire and should not have been singled out for criticism.
