The matatus were being relocated to a new bus terminus at Asian Quarters, a move that many locals feared would negatively affect the transport sector in Nyeri Town.
Mathenge, a member of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), was met with hostility when he tried to address the crowd.
The residents, including the matatu operators, were angered by his stance on the impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Mathenge had been one of the 244 Members of Parliament who voted in favor of the motion to oust Gachagua, a decision that proved to be highly controversial, especially in Nyeri County, which is considered Gachagua's political stronghold.
As Mathenge attempted to speak, the crowd interrupted him with chants and insults, calling him a traitor for supporting the impeachment of Gachagua.
Videos of the incident surfaced online, showing Mathenge struggling to speak as the angered residents expressed their displeasure openly.
Despite this rough reception, Mathenge later managed to speak to another group of matatu operators at a different terminus.
Here, he criticized Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga and challenged his decision to relocate the matatus.
Mathenge boldly stated that the matatu operators would not accept the move, further escalating tensions between the MP and the local leadership.
Mathenge has been a vocal critic of Gachagua's political tactics, particularly his calls for unity within the Mount Kenya region.
In an interview in August 2024, Mathenge argued that Gachagua's approach could alienate other parts of the country, and he stressed the importance of national unity.
His remarks had already caused discomfort among some local supporters of Gachagua, and his vote for the impeachment motion only added fuel to the fire.
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