Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has moved to court, suing Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia over alleged defamation, in a legal battle that could reshape the county’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
In a suit filed at the High Court in Meru, Linturi is seeking Sh50 million in damages, accusing the governor of making false and damaging claims linking him to arson, theft, and immoral conduct during recent political rallies.
According to court documents, the alleged remarks were made on March 8 at Makutano Shopping Centre and later repeated on March 10 in Laare town, despite a demand for retraction.
Linturi, through his lawyers, argues that the statements have severely damaged his reputation, exposing him to public ridicule and political backlash.
“The accusations are completely false. I have never been involved in any criminal activity,” he states in his affidavit, dismissing claims linking him to the burning of Magunas Supermarket and a cereals board facility in Maua.
The former CS further claims the remarks have already triggered disciplinary concerns within his party, the Democracy for the Citizens Party, where he serves as National Organizing Secretary.
He now wants the court to issue orders barring Governor Mutuma from making any further statements he deems defamatory, warning that continued remarks could irreparably harm his political ambitions, including his expected bid for the Meru gubernatorial seat in 2027.
