In the annals of Kenya’s fight for independence, the Naivasha Police Station raid stands out as one of the most daring and successful operations executed by the Mau Mau fighters. At the helm of this audacious raid was Muraya Mbuthia, a man whose strategic brilliance and leadership skills played a crucial role in the struggle against British colonial rule.
Early Life and Rise to Leadership
Born in Murang’a in 1931, Muraya Mbuthia hailed from a relatively prosperous family. Despite his father’s opposition to his education, Mbuthia enrolled in school at the age of fourteen, receiving three years of formal education. His leadership qualities emerged early, and by the age of nineteen, he had taken the oath and was elected the Locational leader of the Kenya African Union (KAU).
Mbuthia’s transition from a young leader to a revolutionary was fueled by a deep sense of injustice. In 1952, the government takeover of a school in North Kinangop, where he was Chairman, left 200 children forced out of their classrooms. This act of oppression drove Mbuthia to join the Mau Mau fighters, determined to fight for freedom.
Formation of the Nyandarua Army
Mbuthia quickly proved his mettle as a leader. He gathered thirty fighters and, armed with spears and pangas, took to the forests. His tactical acumen allowed him to link up with other groups, securing additional weapons. Within four months, his troops had acquired three .303 rifles, a shotgun, a pistol, and forty-five bullets. Among his fighters was the young Mungai Thiga, who was known for his prophetic insights and became a respected member of the company.
Planning the Naivasha Raid
In early March 1953, a bold plan was conceived to attack the Naivasha Police Station. The raid was set for March 22nd, with Mbaria Kaniu, Mbuthia, and Mungai leading the battalion, reinforced by thirty men under Kibira Gatu from Othaya, Nyeri. The journey to Naivasha was fraught with danger, but Mungai’s predictions of safety and guidance from a bright star bolstered their spirits.
The Attack
On the evening of March 26th, the group surrounded the Naivasha Police Station compound. Despite having only five guns and limited ammunition, they relied on the element of surprise. Mbuthia, familiar with the camp’s layout, led the men in cutting through the wire fence and neutralizing a guard. They then broke into the armory, distributing weapons and facing minimal resistance.
One policeman, Sgt. Kiniyia Nene, fired a few shots but was quickly subdued. The Superintendent of Police escaped, and British troops fled to a nearby swamp. The raid freed over 250 prisoners and resulted in a significant haul of firearms, including .303 rifles, sub-machine guns, and ammunition.
Aftermath and Legacy
The Naivasha raid was a turning point in the Mau Mau struggle, showcasing the fighters’ bravery and strategic prowess. Mbuthia’s leadership was instrumental in this victory, which earned praise from Dedan Kimathi. The raid’s success inspired the popular Mau Mau war song “Mūciī Warī Mūnene” and immortalized General Mbaria Kaniu as an attack mastermind.
Following the raid, Mbuthia continued to evade capture, despite being arrested briefly. His youthful appearance helped him avoid recognition as a forest fighter, allowing him to regroup and continue the fight. He formed a new, better-armed company and rejoined his comrades in the Nyandarua forests, continuing their struggle for independence.
Conclusion
Muraya Mbuthia’s role in the Naivasha Police Station raid exemplifies the courage and determination of the Mau Mau fighters. His leadership and tactical brilliance were pivotal in one of the most sophisticated and impactful operations during Kenya’s fight for freedom. The legacy of this raid, and the men who led it, remains a powerful testament to the resilience and bravery of those who fought for Kenya’s independence.
