Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has strongly criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua while reaffirming her support for President William Ruto’s second-term bid.
Speaking on Kogi’s Corner TV during Labour Day, her first public interview since returning from the United States after five months, Governor Kihika dismissed Gachagua’s anti-Ruto alliances as futile and headed for defeat. She emphasized that Gachagua’s impeachment in October last year was a clear-cut issue, following the correct procedures.
“Gachagua was speaking excessively and engaging in strange behaviors as Deputy President. This is not how a deputy should behave toward their boss. I sympathized with Ruto at the time. Gachagua essentially impeached himself,” she said.
Kihika also asserted that Gachagua’s ambitions to rise in office were reckless.
“Gachagua cannot blame President Ruto for his issues. The president did all he could to save him, but Gachagua wasn’t cautious enough to be saved,” Kihika added.
Governor Kihika rejected Gachagua’s repeated claims of being responsible for President Ruto’s success in Mt. Kenya, asserting, “We all worked to secure Mt. Kenya’s vote for Ruto.”
She laughed off Gachagua’s allies’ efforts to strategize a removal of President Ruto in 2027, saying, “Who can Eugene Wamalwa or Martha Karua bring to the table? Kalonzo Musyoka, too? Gachagua is just creating excitement, but a big shock awaits him. He may not even make it to the ballot unless cleared by the courts.”
Kihika was also skeptical about former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i being a challenge to President Ruto. “Matiang’i was part of President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, and we know the mess left behind. His coalition is just short-lived excitement,” she said.
Regarding Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Kihika expressed confidence that he would unite Mt. Kenya and deliver votes for Ruto. “There’s no vacuum in Mt. Kenya, as we have Kindiki—a sober and capable leader who is unlocking many opportunities for us.”
She continued, “Kindiki is not an underdog, and he will unite Mt. Kenya. Ruto will serve two full terms; his work is visible.”
Governor Kihika defended President Ruto’s performance, saying it’s unfair to judge him mid-term. She compared him to former President Mwai Kibaki, whose legacy is recognized after 10 years. “Ruto is following in Kibaki’s footsteps and is doing well,” she said.
She also rejected claims that President Ruto is a liar, stating, “Ruto is hardworking and a performer. He works tirelessly to resolve pending projects, and in time, people will appreciate his efforts.”
Speaking about her absence from the public eye, Kihika explained that she took a break to give birth to twins, Jayden and Jonathan, and returned to work after the necessary time. She also clarified that she had formally notified the public about her leave, dismissing any political implications.
The governor also addressed conflicts involving her Senator, Tabitha Karanja, regarding the politicization of her maternal issues, urging respect for women’s private matters.
Kihika outlined her administration’s achievements, including completing stalled projects and improving educational programs. She has increased vocational training enrolment and expanded school feeding programs.
On the issue of Nakuru War Memorial Hospital, Kihika claimed that the hospital’s management forged documents to extend its lease illegally. She emphasized that the case is in court and that the hospital should revert to public ownership.
Additionally, Kihika revealed that her government’s cashless technology had been corrupted, leading to fraudulent activities. The system is now under revision.
Governor Kihika defended the Social Health Authority (SHA) initiative, highlighting its positive impact on maternal health, with 3 million people already enrolled in Nakuru.
Lastly, Kihika voiced concerns about Nakuru’s tendency to elect one-term governors. “Please allow me to serve two terms to complete the work needed for the people of Nakuru,” she appealed.
