NAIROBI, Kenya- Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has announced that he will not seek re-election on the ruling party ticket in the 2027 General Election, in a move that signals fresh political realignments in the vote-rich region.
In a candid statement, Kang’ata said his decision was informed by feedback from the electorate, insisting that “the people are supreme” and that he must act in line with their wishes.
“Come 2027, I will not defend my seat on the current party ticket, UDA,” he said, adding that he will unveil the political platform he intends to use at a later stage.
Despite the declaration, the governor maintained that he remains a loyal member of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and will continue to support President William Ruto until the end of the current term.
He emphasised that his decision does not amount to a fallout with the president, clarifying that he has no ambitions for higher office.
“I do not intend to vie to become the president of Kenya, nor do I want to become the Deputy President. My interest is only to defend my Murang’a seat,” he stated.
Kang’ata also revealed that he had come under sustained pressure to publicly endorse government programmes and the president’s agenda, particularly during recent visits to Murang’a County.
He cited calls from political leaders, including National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, urging him to take a clearer stance.
“Every time the president comes to Murang’a, I am being pressured to endorse programmes… If I don’t do this, people will say I am a cunning politician. I have to say the truth,” he said.
The governor reiterated that he will continue working with the national government to deliver development projects, even as he charts a different political path ahead of 2027.
His announcement is likely to reshape political dynamics in the Mt Kenya region, where allegiance to the ruling party has been seen as a key factor in electoral success.
Analysts say Kang’ata’s move reflects growing internal shifts within UDA, as leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive 2027 election.
