Irungu Kang'ata: Why I may skip some of Ruto’s Murang’a events

President William Ruto, alongside Muranga Governor Irungu Kangata and other leaders, during the Muranga tour/PCS

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has explained why he may not be present at all events during President William Ruto’s tour of the county.

Speaking shortly after being introduced by President Ruto at a public rally in Murang’a on Friday, Kang’ata said his absence from some of the scheduled activities should not be interpreted negatively, noting that he would have preferred to accompany the President throughout the visit.

He, however, cited a leg condition as the reason he may be unable to attend, while reaffirming his respect for the Head of State and commitment to county development priorities.

“Even as you visit Murang’a today and tomorrow, if you don’t see me in places where you will be during your tour in Murang’a, sina ubaya. Ni hii shida ya mguu,” Kang’ata said.

“But I would have loved to be everywhere because I have to respect your authority and office.”

The governor also used the platform to outline his administration’s development agenda, with a strong focus on industrialisation as a key driver of economic transformation in Murang’a County.

Kang’ata said the county government is prioritising the establishment of industrial infrastructure aimed at creating employment opportunities for young people.

“Our main agenda is on industrialisation. We look for a way we can build factories where our young people can get jobs. That’s why we are pushing for an industrial park,” he said.

He noted that the success of such projects would depend heavily on cooperation between the county and national governments, particularly in the provision of key infrastructure such as electricity, road networks, and other utilities necessary to support industrial growth.

Kang’ata emphasised that collaboration between the two levels of government was essential in ensuring that development plans are fully implemented and deliver meaningful impact to residents.

He called for stronger coordination to unlock investment and accelerate economic opportunities within the county, especially for the youth population, which continues to face high unemployment levels.

The governor’s remarks were made in the presence of President Ruto, who is on a tour of the Mt Kenya region.

The visit has featured discussions around development projects, government programmes, and regional economic priorities.

President Ruto has said his administration is implementing multi-billion-shilling projects in infrastructure, energy and social sectors as part of efforts to accelerate development in Murang’a County.

He added that the government would not allow key projects to stall, vowing to complete the Sh30 billion Mau Mau road to improve connectivity and boost economic activity.

“We must ensure that the Mau Mau road project does not stop until it is fully completed,” Ruto said, adding that other feeder roads would also be prioritised.