Ndegwa Njiru lectures Njoroge Kururia and other government MPs at the burial of Maina Njenga’s father, Mzee Stephen Kamunya Njoroge, the father of the former Mungiki leader, in Laikipia on December 31, 2025. The lawyer used the platform to challenge Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s recent push for a constitutional referendum.
The funeral for the late Mzee Stephen Kamunya Njoroge, who died at 101, drew leaders from the Mt Kenya region. Many attended to mourn and show unity. But politics came up during speeches. Ndegwa Njiru, known for strong views on constitutional matters, took the microphone.
He reportedly said something like, “Go and tell Mudavadi that elections must be held even if he brings his referendum!” Njiru stressed that the 2027 general election should go ahead without changes. He warned against any moves seen as delaying or complicating the vote.
Mudavadi suggested holding a referendum in late December alongside the 2027 polls. He argued it would fix issues like boundary reviews, census data, and entrenched funds like NG-CDF. He said it could save costs and address long-standing gaps in the 2010 Constitution.
Critics, including Njiru, call the idea risky. The lawyer has said before that such a plan is legally questionable and politically timed wrong. He worries it could create uncertainty close to elections. Courts have blocked similar significant changes in the past.
At the burial, Njiru aimed his words at MPs aligned with the government. Njoroge Kururia is from the region. The speech got attention, as funerals in Kenya often turn into political forums, especially with 2027 approaching.
Maina Njenga hosted leaders earlier in preparations. He called for Mt Kenya cohesion. The event mixed grief with talks on regional strength.
No disruptions reported. The day focused on sending off Kamunya with dignity. Leaders flew in from Nairobi, including Njiru.
Mudavadi has defended his proposal. He says it’s about inclusive government, like formalising opposition leader roles. But opposition figures reject it as unnecessary.
Kenya’s constitution sets clear election dates. Any referendum needs a careful process. Debates heat up as parties position for polls.
Njiru often speaks on the rule of law. His comments at the burial fit his style: direct and protective of electoral timelines.
The funeral closed with calls for peace. The family and leaders present urged calm politics instead of violence. But words like Njiru’s show underlying tensions.
As the new year starts, referendum talk lingers. Will it gain support or fade? Leaders watch public mood.
Burials bring people together. This one highlighted ongoing national conversations.
Mt Kenya voices matter in these debates. Unity calls for mixing with firm stands on process. The year ahead will test them.
