Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru arrested over 'drunk driving'

Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has been arrested and is expected to be charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.

Njiru has strongly denied the accusations, insisting he has never consumed alcohol in his life.

Police said the advocate, a close ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, was arrested along the Thika Super Highway and is set to be arraigned at the Milimani Law Courts.

The circumstances surrounding his arrest appeared to shift after Njiru initially maintained that he had been detained over an alleged obstruction on the highway following a vehicle breakdown.

In an earlier post on his social media accounts, Njiru said he had been taken to Kasarani Police Station after his vehicle stalled.

"I have been arrested by the Kasarani police. I am at Kasarani Station. I am being accused of obstruction after my vehicle broke down on the Thika Highway. Police are yet to book me," he wrote.

However, while in police custody, Njiru claimed officers had informed him he was instead being accused of driving while drunk.

A video circulating on social media showed the lawyer speaking from what appeared to be a police holding cell, vehemently denying ever consuming alcohol.

"I do not even drink. I do not know how alcohol tastes. I have never tasted beer in my life," Njiru said.

"I also do not know the price of beer."

By Thursday morning, a team of lawyers had assembled at the Milimani Law Courts ahead of his expected arraignment.

His defence team is being led by his younger brother, advocate Charles Mwangi. Senior Counsel Kibe Mungai and advocate Jairus Gichigo were also among the lawyers present to represent him.

Police had not publicly released details of any breathalyser test, medical examination or other evidence they intend to rely on in support of the alleged drunk-driving charge.

In recent months, the lawyer has emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration.

He has also represented former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in several high-profile court cases, including legal proceedings challenging Gachagua's impeachment.

The advocate's arrest is likely to attract political attention given his close association with Gachagua and his frequent criticism of the government. 

The case is expected to come up before the Milimani Law Courts, where prosecutors are anticipated to formally present the charges against him. Njiru is expected to plead to the allegations, which he has publicly denied.