Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has declared that he will not be intimidated or silenced amid what he described as growing political pressure and alleged use of state institutions to target leaders, insisting that his focus remains firmly on development and service delivery.
Speaking during the Murang’a Youth Service graduation ceremony at Ihura Stadium on Sunday, May 10, 2026, Kang’ata said his leadership is guided by service to the people rather than political confrontation or personal battles.
He emphasized that despite rising political tensions, his administration remains committed to delivering development projects across Murang’a County.
“Najua hapa iko mashabiki wengi wetu ambao wataweza kupata hii nafasi. Na najua wanaweza kuwa tempted kusema hei, tulisikia governor ametukanwa mahali fulani; wacha sasa turudishe. Hapana, Gavana hataki kutetewa na mtu; atatetewa na Mungu. Sisi ni kufanya tu maendeleo hatutaki vita,” he said.
Kang’ata noted that his initial plan as county leadership was to avoid political engagement during development implementation, allowing residents to make decisions freely during election periods.
However, he said changing political dynamics forced him to take a more open position on issues affecting governance and leadership direction.
“Lakini unajua hii dunia si yangu tu iko na watu wengine na basi ikafika mahali nikatoa msimamo wangu. Na huo msimamo si personal ni vile nimeobserve hii dunia vile inaenda,” he added.
The governor also revealed that he would not defend his seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in the 2027 elections, saying the decision was informed by his assessment of the current political environment.
“Last week nilisema mimi sitatetea kiti changu na chama cha UDA,” he stated.
He further questioned political strategies being used by some leaders, arguing that certain approaches risk alienating supporters rather than strengthening party support.
Kang’ata drew comparisons with past political events, suggesting that coercive tactics such as disruption of meetings and use of force often end up increasing public sympathy for affected leaders.
He cited instances where political gatherings were allegedly disrupted, including incidents involving public meetings and church events, saying such actions raise concerns about democratic space.
On matters of corruption and accountability, Kang’ata said anti-graft efforts must be fair and not politically driven, warning against what he termed selective targeting of leaders under the guise of investigations.
He pointed to alleged politically motivated destruction of property belonging to leaders, saying such incidents undermine trust in governance institutions.
The governor maintained that despite anticipated pressure, he will remain firm in his position and continue speaking out.
“Najua hata mimi wanaweza kuanza kuniletea mashida. Lakini sawa tu, hiyo ni kawaida. Nitaendelea kung’ang’ana; sitampiga mtu, lakini nitaendelea kuongea ukweli,” he said.
His remarks come at a time of heightened political activity and realignments ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
