Francis Wambugu Irungu Kirinyaga politics has taken a dramatic turn following a bold declaration by former Woman Representative Wangui Ngirici, who has publicly signaled her departure from the Kenya Kwanza fold and aligned herself with the growing “one-term” political movement.
Speaking during a tour of Ndia Constituency where she addressed a series of rallies, Ngirici announced that she will soon reveal the party she intends to join, a revelation that has set the county’s political landscape abuzz.
The declaration marks a significant turning point for a leader once regarded as a close ally of President William Ruto. Political observers now view her move as a considerable blow to the Kenya Kwanza alliance’s foothold in the wider Mt. Kenya region, where cracks have been widening in recent months.
Taking aim at sitting Governor Anne Waiguru, Ngirici urged her to step back from succession politics and allow a level playing field for aspiring leaders to present their agendas to voters.
“Voters should be given the freedom to choose their next leadership without influence from incumbents,” she said, in remarks widely interpreted as a direct challenge to Waiguru’s perceived attempt to anoint a successor.
Ngirici also seized the platform to deliver a pointed warning to the youth, cautioning them against being drawn into the murky waters of political violence.
“Do not allow yourselves to be used as goons,” she told the crowds, instead encouraging young people to rally behind leaders with a clear vision and a genuine commitment to development.
The former legislator, who currently serves as Chairperson of the Kenya Seed Company, appears to be methodically laying the groundwork for a gubernatorial bid, drawing on her deep grassroots networks and years of political experience in the region.
Her entry into the race is widely expected to intensify the contest for the Kirinyaga gubernatorial seat, with a fierce battle anticipated between her and Senator Kamau Murango, alongside other emerging aspirants.
As the county braces for what promises to be a highly competitive electoral cycle, Ngirici’s next move, particularly the party she chooses, will be closely watched by allies, rivals, and voters alike.
With her announcement of an imminent party declaration, one thing is increasingly clear: Kirinyaga’s political terrain is shifting, and the race for the county’s top seat is only just beginning to heat up.
