Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has hit back at criticism over her political alignment and development record, defending her cooperation with the National Government and dismissing allegations she described as petty and misleading.
In a strongly worded statement, Waiguru said she rarely responds to accusations but felt compelled to address claims touching on the welfare of farmers and the county’s development agenda.
She directly referenced remarks attributed to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saying there was no dispute over Mwea rice and that farmers’ incomes had already been secured.
“I usually do not respond to petty allegations, recognising that not every provocation deserves the dignity of response, but on this one, allow me to bring to the attention of @rigathi that we have no issue with Mwea rice and to clarify that the National Government has already uptaken all rice in our stores, securing our farmers’ incomes,” Waiguru said.
She framed the intervention as an example of effective leadership, contrasting it with what she termed political activism.
“These sorts of interventions are what true leaders engage in, the rest we leave to activists,” she added.
Responding to claims of “pocketing leaders,” the governor said Kirinyaga’s leadership had made a deliberate choice guided by the interests of residents.
She cited several development projects and economic gains achieved through collaboration with the National Government.
“As for pocketing leaders: Kirinyaga leaders have made a determination on which side they are, for the benefit of their people. Come and see just a few of our achievements,” Waiguru said.
She listed completed and ongoing infrastructure projects, including Kagio town feeder roads, the ongoing construction of the Kagumo–Mununga–Kiamaina–Gathuthuma–Kianjagi Road, and the PI–Murinduko–Kiumbu–Kiandegwa Road (55km).
She also pointed to the construction of 11 additional markets and a dam to support Mwea farmers.
On agriculture, Waiguru highlighted improved earnings for coffee farmers, saying, “Coffee farmers earning up to Sh148 per kilo, the highest payout in Kenya.”
According to the governor, these outcomes are a direct result of cooperation with the National Government.
“Our collaboration with the National Government has helped us improve the welfare of our people. Huku ni kazi huongea, and voters will vote based on performance,” she said.
Waiguru also dismissed suggestions that she should align with alternative political camps, insisting her focus remains on tangible benefits for Kirinyaga residents.
“As I said, Wamunyoro siendi, because I cannot see how that is going to assist Kirinyaga people,” she stated.
