By Mumo Judah
June 8, 2026
President William Ruto has appointed gospel musician-turned-politician Paul Waiganjo as the new Presidential Advisor on Development Affairs, marking the latest addition to his administration as it seeks to strengthen coordination and implementation of development programmes across the country.
The appointment was announced by Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano during a church service in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County, where she revealed that Waiganjo will be based at State House and will advise the President on matters relating to development and the execution of key government projects.
The new role places Waiganjo among a growing team of presidential advisors tasked with supporting the Kenya Kwanza administration’s agenda on economic transformation, infrastructure development and service delivery. State House has in recent months expanded its advisory structures to bolster implementation and strengthen engagement with various sectors of society.
Speaking during the church service, Miano said Waiganjo’s appointment reflects the confidence the President has in his leadership and commitment to public service. She noted that the new advisor will play a key role in supporting development initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of Kenyans.
Waiganjo’s elevation comes against the backdrop of shifting political dynamics in Nyandarua County ahead of the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election. The seat fell vacant following the death of area Member of Parliament David Kiaraho in late March 2026, triggering intense political activity among parties seeking to succeed the late legislator.
Before joining the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Waiganjo had initially sought to contest the seat under the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). However, after falling short in the party primaries, he abandoned his bid and later crossed over to UDA, throwing his support behind the party’s candidate in the upcoming by-election.
His decision to align himself with the ruling party was widely viewed as a significant political realignment in Nyandarua politics, with analysts suggesting it could strengthen UDA’s influence in the region ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Waiganjo first rose to national prominence through gospel music before venturing into politics and public service. Over the years, he has remained active in community development initiatives and has cultivated close ties with political leaders within the Kenya Kwanza administration.
His appointment is expected to further consolidate his role within the government and position him among influential figures involved in shaping and monitoring development programmes under President Ruto’s administration.
The Ol Kalou by-election continues to attract considerable attention, with political parties intensifying campaigns in a contest widely seen as a test of political strength in the Mt Kenya region following the death of Kiaraho earlier this year.
