Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Calls It Quits After Three Decades in Politics
Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has announced his retirement from active politics, bringing to a close a political career that spanned more than 30 years and shaped Kenya’s governance landscape across multiple administrations.
Kiraitu made the announcement on Tuesday, January 27, while speaking at Laikipia University, where he was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his long record of public service, leadership, and contribution to national development. The event was attended by family members, friends, academic leaders, and invited guests.
Reflecting on his journey, the former governor said he had reached a personal and professional crossroads and was now choosing a different path away from elective politics. He revealed that he intends to dedicate his post-political life to promoting happiness in the workplace and mentoring leaders on life beyond public office.
“I have served this country in politics for over three decades. I now feel it is time to step aside and focus on a new mission — helping people, especially leaders, find meaning, balance and happiness beyond power,” Kiraitu said.
Kiraitu, a seasoned politician and lawyer, served in various senior government roles, including as Cabinet minister and later as Meru governor. However, his political journey suffered a major setback in the 2022 General Election, when he lost his bid for re-election to Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
Speaking candidly during the ceremony, Kiraitu disclosed that the defeat had a profound emotional impact on him.
“When I lost in 2022, I almost sank into depression. Politics is all I had known for more than 30 years, and losing it suddenly left a huge void. I never want to go back to that place,” he said.
Following the election loss, Kiraitu said he underwent nine months of intensive counselling and training, an experience he described as transformative and central to his decision to walk away from frontline politics. The programme, he explained, equipped him with tools to navigate life transitions and personal fulfillment outside the political arena.
Despite his exit from elective politics, Kiraitu remains in public service. In April 2023, President William Ruto appointed him as Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOCK), a position he will hold for a three-year term. He clarified, however, that the role is professional rather than political
“What I am embracing now is what I call low-volume politics — offering advice, mentoring, and support without the noise and pressure of elective office,” he noted.
His announcement comes amid earlier speculation that he could make a political comeback ahead of the 2027 General Election, with some of his allies suggesting he might contest a Senate seat. Kiraitu firmly dismissed the idea, saying it was time to allow younger leaders to step forward and shape the country’s future.
“Kenya has many capable young leaders. My role now is to support them, not to compete with them,” he added.
Kiraitu’s wife, Priscillah Murungi, publicly welcomed the decision, saying the family supported his new direction and believed it was the right time for him to pursue personal growth and other interests outside politics.
“He has given his best years to public service. This new chapter allows him to rediscover himself and focus on life beyond politics,” she said.
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Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Calls It Quits After Three Decades in Politics
