A political storm is brewing in Murang’a County after National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah launched a sharp public attack on Governor Irungu Kang’ata, dismissing claims that he has been exerting pressure on the county boss.
In a strongly worded statement, Ichung’wah accused Kang’ata of engaging in what he termed as “hypocritical politics” and cautioned him against dragging his name into political battles for personal gain.
The Majority Leader maintained that his recent remarks directed at the governor were not meant to apply pressure, but rather to call out what he described as inconsistencies in Kang’ata’s political conduct. He referenced a previous encounter at Kenneth Matiba Hospital, saying his comments were made openly and transparently.
“I said what I said in public, not to exert pressure but to call out the hypocrisy I observed,” Ichung’wah stated.
He further pointed to a past meeting in Lavington during the period of impeachment politics, suggesting that it was during that time that real political pressure had been applied. According to Ichung’wah, the discussions then revolved around political ambitions, including efforts by Kang’ata to position himself for higher office.
Ichung’wah alleged that Kang’ata had previously sought political backing, adding that his views on the governor’s ambitions and approach to politics remain unchanged.
In his remarks, the Majority Leader also accused Kang’ata of attempting to align himself strategically by invoking the names of other political figures, warning him to desist from such tactics.
“Fight your battles and keep off name-dropping to advance your politics,” Ichung’wah said, in a direct message to the governor.
He further issued a veiled warning, hinting at the possibility of revealing more details about past engagements between the two, including sensitive discussions related to Murang’a County matters.
“Do you really want me to disclose full details of our past meetings? It is not in your interest,” he cautioned.
The public exchange marks an escalation of political tensions between the two leaders, both of whom have been influential figures in the region’s politics.
Ichung’wah said he chose to respond publicly after Kang’ata allegedly raised the issue in the same manner, signalling a shift from behind-the-scenes engagement to open political confrontation.
The fallout is likely to fuel political debate in Murang’a, especially as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
As the standoff unfolds, observers say the dispute could shape alliances and rivalries within the region, with both leaders now under pressure to clarify their positions to the public.
