Kang’ata Dismisses DCP Defection Claims, Says UDA Losing Grip in Mt Kenya
Speaking during a televised interview and subsequent public statements, Kang’ata defended his earlier announcement that he would not seek re-election on a UDA ticket in 2027, clarifying that his decision was guided by policy considerations rather than personal ambition or political opportunism.
Addressing speculation about his next political move, Kang’ata stated, “Whichever camp I will join, I will have to give them one condition that they will have to give the following three agendas a priority: manufacturing, education, particularly day school education, and thirdly, health care and insurance policy for the poor.” The remarks indicate that the governor is positioning himself around a development-focused agenda ahead of the next general election.
Despite his planned departure from UDA in 2027, Kang’ata maintained that he remains a loyal member of the party for now and will continue to collaborate with President William Ruto’s administration on development projects in Murang’a County. He emphasised that his working relationship with the national government remains intact.
Kang’ata further argued that certain actions by the government have inadvertently strengthened the opposition, including DCP. He claimed, “The government has been taking actions whose net effect is to make DCP more popular… I am more interested in what the government is doing to shoot itself in the foot and therefore strengthening the case for the opposition.” His comments reflect broader tensions within Kenya’s political landscape as alliances begin to shift ahead of the 2027 elections.
At the same time, the governor dismissed suggestions that his decision to exit UDA was driven by personal grievances, including claims that he had sought to be appointed Deputy President following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua. The allegations were publicly raised by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who accused Kang’ata of exerting pressure for the position.
Responding to the claims, Kang’ata stated, “This thing is not personal, and I will not be drawn to personalization of politics… The full details of my supposed candidature to become DP… for now, I do not intend to talk much about.” He added that he remains on good terms with Ichung’wah and would prefer private engagement over public exchanges.
The governor also revealed that he had come under increasing pressure to publicly declare his political stance, suggesting that the timing of his announcement was influenced by mounting expectations from both supporters and critics.
Reflecting on the situation, he remarked, “It reaches a stage when you are put into a corner where you have to say something… if you don’t, people start saying you are not a good person.” The statement underscores the political pressures facing leaders as the country gradually shifts focus toward the next electoral cycle.
While Kang’ata has yet to reveal the political platform he will adopt, his emphasis on policy priorities and regional dynamics is expected to shape his next move. His position adds to the growing list of leaders reconsidering their alignment, raising questions about the future of party politics in Kenya.
As the debate unfolds, attention will remain on how UDA responds to internal criticism and whether other leaders in Mount Kenya will follow a similar path in the coming months.
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Kang’ata Dismisses DCP Defection Claims, Says UDA Losing Grip in Mt Kenya
