MERU, Kenya – Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has announced his retirement from active politics, saying he wants to shift his focus to promoting workplace happiness and mental wellbeing.
Speaking on Tuesday morning after receiving an honorary doctorate from Laikipia University, Dr. Kiraitu said the decision comes after more than three decades in public service.
The university awarded him the honorary degree in recognition of his “distinguished public service and leadership.”
“I have learned my lessons. After serving in politics for over 30 years, it is time to step back and pursue other meaningful work,” Kiraitu said as he addressed close friends and family during the ceremony.
Kiraitu’s political journey began in 1992 when he was first elected to Parliament. He later served as a cabinet minister during President Mwai Kibaki’s administration, before winning a Senate seat in 2013.
In 2017, he successfully ran for governor of Meru County, a position he held until he was defeated in the 2022 elections by Kawira Mwangaza.
The loss, Kiraitu admitted, was difficult. He revealed that he nearly fell into depression after the 2022 defeat, saying he had “known nothing else” for more than 30 years and was unsure how to adjust to life outside politics.
However, the former governor says the experience ultimately transformed him. He underwent nine months of counselling and training, which led him to embrace what he calls a “happiness crusade.”
“The counselling gave me a different perspective on life,” he said. “Now I want to share this message and help others, including politicians, to find purpose beyond politics.”
Kiraitu said he will now practice what he described as “low volume politics,” serving mainly in an advisory capacity while focusing on spreading happiness in workplaces and communities.
There had been speculation that Kiraitu might return to politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
Some of his allies had suggested he could run for Senate again, while others believed he might be making room for younger leaders vying for elective seats.
His wife, Priscillah Murungi, welcomed the announcement, saying it was time for him to settle and focus on other personal and social commitments.
