Mbeere North protest over healthcare concerns turns chaotic leading to loss of lives

Mercy Chete April 15, 2026

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By Mercy Chete

Protests over Healthcare concerns in Mbeere North ,Ishiara level 4 hospital leadind to loss of lives .

In Mbeere North Ishiara Embu county ,residents took to the streets to protest of the dilapidated state of Ishiara level 4 hospital .

Their grievances centered on
.Persistent shortages of essential drugs and medical supplies
.Inadequate staffing and poor infrastructure.
.A general decline in healthcare services that forced locals to travel for long distances for basic treatment .

POLICE BRUTALITY
What began as a protest to demand for better services turned chaotic on 14th Tuesday April when the pokice moved in to disperse the crowds .
The protests turned violent resulting to death of atleast three people after the police reportedly opened fire on demonstrators.

REACTIONS
In a show of anger and grief ,residents reportedly carried the bodies of the deceased to Ishiara police station,demanding accountability for the shooting .
The demonstrations has paralyzed transport and businesses in Ishiara town .

GOVERNMENT PROBE
Embu governor Cecily Mbarire has called for urgent investigation into the police action ,expressing deep pain and anger over the loss of lives.
In an interview she said
“It has come to my attention ,following demonstrations that took place today at Ishiara in Mbeere North that we have tragically lost two young men .I strongly condemn the use of excessive force including live ammunition, against unarmed and unacceptable. “

Former Attorney General Justine Muturi who also hails from Mbeere North also condemned the killings defending the residents right to protest over legitimate healthcare concerns .

The National Police Service has pledged to cooperate with the independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate the conduct of the officers involved .

Members of the Embu County Assembly revealed they had warned the County Executive just last week that a protest was imminent if the Hospital’s issues weren’t addressed .