Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-02-25 10:54:11
National Assembly Leader of Majority Kimani Ichung’wah has come out to dismiss reports suggesting that he has ambitions to run for the Kiambu governor’s seat in the 2027 elections. The Kikuyu lawmaker made these remarks during a recent development tour in the county, where he hinted that his differences with Governor Kimani Wamatangi were purely political.
Ichung’wah emphasized that Governor Wamatangi should focus on his duties and responsibilities rather than engaging in political skirmishes with him through intermediaries. He cautioned that if the governor continued to launch attacks on other leaders in the county, they would mobilize support for an alternative candidate for the gubernatorial seat.
Accusing the governor of sowing seeds of division in Kiambu, Ichung’wah declared that he would not indulge in any exchanges with individuals purportedly sent by Wamatangi. He made it clear that his current and future focus was not on pursuing the governorship but rather on empowering and supporting potential leaders within the county.
Supporting Ichung’wah’s stance, other leaders who accompanied him also reiterated their commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in the use of public resources, despite facing relentless attacks from the governor’s camp. Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, for instance, called for a thorough investigation by relevant security agencies into the alleged financial mismanagement in the county.
The political landscape in Kiambu has been characterized by tensions and disputes since the 2022 General Election, with dissenting voices becoming prominent even during recent high-profile events such as President William Ruto’s development tour in the region. At a rally held in February, Ichung’wah and other local leaders accused Governor Wamatangi of inciting disruptive behavior, including paying rowdy youths to disrupt their speeches. Some leaders, like Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a, openly expressed their intentions to challenge Wamatangi in the upcoming elections.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua weighed in on the situation, admonishing the leaders for their conduct and urging them to maintain decorum, especially in the presence of President Ruto. Gachagua emphasized the importance of respecting the Head of State and avoiding disruptive tactics at political gatherings, emphasizing the need for unity and civility in political discourse.
Overall, the political dynamics in Kiambu County continue to evolve, with ongoing power struggles, aspirations for leadership positions, and calls for accountability shaping the narrative. As the 2027 elections draw nearer, the competition and tensions among political players are expected to intensify, setting the stage for a fiercely contested electoral contest in the county.
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