Candidate collapses in Embu after being hit with microphone

A candidate eyeing the Kirimari Ward seat in Embu County was admitted to hospital when he fell unconscious minutes after he was hit with a microphone by a supporter of his rival.

Morris ‘Collo’ Nyaga, the Jubilee Party candidate, was rushed to Embu Children's Hospital after the attack in Dallas, where he was campaigning.

Embu Children’s Hospital CEO Jim Njamiu said Mr Nyaga had suffered high blood pressure and is out of danger.

He was later transferred to Karira Mission Hospital in neighbouring Kirinyaga County for further treatment.

Dozens of Mr Nyaga’s supporters flocked the hospital and urged police to quickly investigate the matter and apprehend the culprits.

Narc-Kenya candidate Kenneth Muturi said he was with Mr Nyaga and Maendeleo Chap Chap contender Dennis Mbae when a group of about 10 people, who were carrying posters of a rival, started shouting them down.

It is after Mr Nyaga stood to address his supporters that a man emerged from the crowd, snatched the microphone and hit him with it on his forehead.

“He withstood the pain for some time but collapsed after about two minutes,” said Mr Muturi.

Embu West police boss Francis Sang said the matter had not yet been reported to them and urged politicians to restrain their supporters.