Former Murang’a Senator Kembi Gitura has stepped down as Chairman of the Board at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), only eight months after his appointment.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Gitura said his decision was influenced by his political convictions and his firm opposition to President William Ruto’s administration.
He explained that his role at KUTRRH had created the perception that he was aligned with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), which he strongly opposes.
“When I accepted this role, many of my friends and political supporters questioned whether I had shifted my allegiance to UDA. I explained that this was not a political appointment, but optics matter. People still linked me to the government,” Gitura stated.
He insisted that remaining in office would send mixed signals, adding: “I do not support UDA government policies on virtually all fronts. I do not want to mislead anyone by my actions, words, or deeds. In 2027, every vote will count, and I want my political stand to be clear.”
Despite resigning, Gitura praised KUTRRH for offering quality specialised treatment and reducing the need for Kenyans to travel abroad. He admitted his work at the hospital was impactful, but said politics defined his identity.
“I may be doing a good job at helping make positive change at the hospital, but I am a politician,” he said.
Gitura’s career in public service spans several high-profile roles. He previously chaired the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) board during the COVID-19 pandemic before President Uhuru Kenyatta dissolved it. In 2021, he was appointed chair of the Communications Authority of Kenya.
Elected in 2013 as Murang’a’s first senator under Jubilee Party, Gitura also served as Deputy Speaker in the Eleventh Parliament. He later contested for Murang’a governor in 2017 but lost.
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