No Crisis, Just Maternity Leave
Nakuru, Kenya- Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones has firmly dismissed claims of a leadership vacuum, assuring residents that county operations remain unaffected despite Governor Susan Kihika’s prolonged stay in the US.
His response comes after a section of Nakuru residents filed a petition at the county assembly, demanding an investigation into Kihika’s whereabouts.
GOVERNOR KIHIKA’S ABSENCESince when did childbirth become a crime for women in leadership? Female MPs under the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) ask as they defend Kihika, who is on maternity leave. #KBCniYetu ^MM
However, Kones insists that the governor, who recently gave birth to twins, had formally communicated her maternity leave and that all county affairs are running smoothly.
“When the governor traveled to the US for delivery, she wrote a letter that was widely shared on WhatsApp to ensure transparency. The county is running efficiently, and there is no leadership gap,” Kones stated.
Backing his statement, a January 17, 2025 letter from Nakuru’s Chief of Staff reassured the public that Susan Kihika is in good health and remains in touch with her administration.
Who’s Running Nakuru While Susan Kihika is in the US?
Kenyan law is clear—Article 179(4) and (5) of the Constitution designates the deputy governor as the acting county chief when the governor is unavailable.
Kones confirmed that he has been chairing County Executive Committee meetings and ensuring all government functions remain operational.
However, under the County Government Act (2012), an acting governor cannot hire or dismiss officials, meaning major administrative decisions must await Governor Kihika’s return from the US.
Gender Bias? Women Leaders Speak Out
The backlash over Susan Kihika’s absence has sparked a heated debate on gender and leadership, with women legislators condemning what they call sexist double standards.
Kenyans, we must develop a culture of deeply respecting a mother’s right to maternity leave before and after birth. Fathers should also take paternity leave at some point to be with mother and child/ren. Governor Susan Kihika has a deputy and communication systems. Let her be. ⚖️
“Her Excellency Susan Kihika has the same right to maternity leave as any other parent. We demand an end to gender-based criticism of our women leaders,” they said in a February 25 statement.
The controversy escalated when an activist claimed Kihika’s absence had disrupted governance and even urged U.S. President Donald Trump (yes, really) to deport her back to Kenya.
While some critics argue that Kihika’s five-month absence is excessive, maternity leave in Kenya allows for up to 90 days, with no legal framework preventing an extension for medical or personal reasons.
Governor Susan Kihika’s US maternity leave has turned into a heated debate on leadership, governance, and gender equality.
While some insist her absence has left a power vacuum, her administration remains firm—Nakuru is still in good hands.
