By Joshua Otieno | May 3, 2026
NAIROBI, KENYA — Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has warned that the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) could face political headwinds in the Mt. Kenya region, citing shifting dynamics and mounting pressure on local leaders.
Speaking candidly on the evolving political landscape, Kang’ata said regional politics are becoming increasingly complex, with leaders being pushed to publicly declare their loyalties.
“I have seen how the politics is going on, and I think I am now convinced it will not end well for the UDA party, at least in my region,” he said. “It reaches a stage when the president is in Murang’a, you are put into a corner where you have to say something.”
Despite the concerns, Kang’ata maintained that his primary focus remains on governance and service delivery rather than national political contests.
Development priorities over politics
The governor emphasized that his political decisions ahead of the 2027 elections will be guided by key development agendas, particularly in manufacturing, education, and healthcare.
“Whichever camp I will join, I will have to give them one condition — they must prioritise manufacturing, education, especially day school education, and healthcare for the poor,” he stated.
He added that he is not interested in presidential ambitions, clarifying that his immediate goal is to defend his gubernatorial seat.
“I do not want to be president. I am only interested in defending my seat,” Kang’ata said, noting that his interests do not conflict with those of President William Ruto or Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
Mixed review of past and current policies
Kang’ata also weighed in on past government projects under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, particularly the ESP market initiative.
He questioned the viability of the markets, arguing that traders often prefer open-air setups and suggesting that the funds could have been better invested in infrastructure or education.
“It would have been better to deploy that money into opening up urban roads or even support free secondary day school education,” he said.
At the same time, he praised former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria for conceptualising the County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPs), calling for the initiative to be expanded nationally.
Commentary on political figures
Kang’ata offered measured observations on several key political figures, noting the growing influence of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whom he said has gained strength partly due to political treatment.
He also acknowledged the administrative reputation of Fred Matiang’i, while suggesting that Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka could benefit from refining his political agenda.
On Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Kang’ata described him as a longtime acquaintance and warned that heavy-handed political tactics against him had only strengthened his influence.
“When you deploy hard tactics, you are only helping your adversary,” he said.
Political balancing act
While expressing concerns about UDA’s prospects in his region, Kang’ata reiterated that he remains a member of the party and continues to work with the national government on development programs in Murang’a County.
His remarks highlight the delicate balancing act facing regional leaders as Kenya’s political landscape begins to take shape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
