Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has highlighted the escalating political challenges facing the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in the Mt Kenya region.
In a media briefing at his Upper Hill office in Nairobi, he cautioned that strategic missteps could jeopardize the party’s future electoral support.
Kang’ata emphasized that the President holds a national mandate, extending beyond Mt Kenya, and electoral backing is crucial from across the country. “The President is elected by many Kenyans, not just those in my region. Votes can come from various places, not solely Mt Kenya,” he stated.
While affirming his role as Murang’a’s governor, he stressed the importance of aligning with broader leadership frameworks. “As governor of Murang’a, I must stay in sync with my colleagues, hence I refrain from speaking out in their presence,” he noted.
Kang’ata expressed dissatisfaction with the internal political dynamics, feeling marginalized in key decision-making. “I’m unhappy with the impression that I’m being manipulated,” he remarked.
He pointed out visible challenges within UDA’s political alignment in the region, attributing them to strategic errors that could lead to electoral repercussions. “Problems exist in our region due to the party’s missteps. If trends continue, UDA leaders may face significant electoral losses here,” he warned.
Drawing comparisons to the decline of the Jubilee Party in the 2022 elections, Kang’ata asserted that UDA has lost favor among Mt Kenya voters due to similar political blunders.
He announced his decision not to seek re-election under the UDA banner in the 2027 General Election, while reaffirming his commitment to the party throughout his current term. He cited differences in political strategy, citizen engagement, and policy priorities as reasons for this decision, clarifying that it is not personal.
Kang’ata expressed gratitude for his longstanding relationship with President William Ruto, reflecting on their collaboration since 2013 when he first served as Kiharu MP. “I appreciate the meaningful relationship we’ve built over the years, as MP, Senator, and now Governor,” he said, acknowledging his past role as Senate Majority Whip, which further strengthened their partnership.
He called for a shift in leadership style, advocating for politics rooted in persuasion and dialogue rather than confrontation. “Leadership should focus on persuasion, not pressure; dialogue, not coercion,” he cautioned, warning that escalating political tensions could threaten democratic values.
Kang’ata plans to announce his future political platform at a later date.
