Nakuru women rally behind Governor Kihika amid absence controversy

The prolonged absence of Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has sparked widespread debate, with a group of women leaders from Naivasha coming to her defence.

The women criticised Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja for calling for the governor’s impeachment, insisting that Kihika—who is reportedly on maternity leave in the United States—has not abandoned her duties.

Since mid-last year, the governor's absence has raised concerns among county residents, with allegations that numerous projects have stalled and funds have been misappropriated.

The senator had urged county MCAs to initiate impeachment proceedings, warning that the county was on the verge of collapse due to Kihika's prolonged, unexplained absence.

However, women's leader Catherine Munyaka dismissed claims that the governor’s absence had affected service delivery, asserting that her deputy was fully in charge of county operations.

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Munyaka also condemned the political infighting between the senator and the governor, saying it was hindering service delivery to residents.

"The governor has not abdicated her duties but is currently nursing complications after giving birth to twins in the US," Munyaka stated.

Cecilia Waithera also defended Kihika, insisting that county operations and development projects had continued uninterrupted despite her absence. She urged the senator to collaborate with the governor to ensure efficient service delivery and development for Nakuru residents.

"The senator’s political ambitions should not take precedence over the collective goal of fulfilling the governor’s manifesto. Women leaders should unite instead of engaging in unnecessary infighting," Waithera said.

Christine Nduta echoed these sentiments, explaining that Kihika was recovering from post-birth complications and should be given time to recuperate.

She urged county leaders to work together to ensure the smooth running of county affairs in the governor’s absence, prioritising public interests over political rivalries.