Kang’ata: I’ll not seek re-election on a UDA ticket in 2027

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata speaking to the media on May 3, 2026 / HANDOUT

Murang’a GovernorIrungu Kang’ata has announced that he will not seek re-election on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in the 2027 General Election.

The Murang’a Governor, however, maintained his loyalty to the UDA party for the remainder of his term.

In a statement issued on May 3, 2026, Kang’ata cited differences in political strategy, citizen engagement and policy priorities as the basis for his decision, though he emphasised that the divergence is not personal.

Kang’ata expressed appreciation for his long-standing working relationship with President William Ruto, noting that their association dates back to 2013 when he first served as Kiharu MP.

“I express my sincere gratitude for the long and meaningful relationship I have had with His Excellency the President. Our association stretches back to 2013 when I first served as Member of Parliament for Kiharu. Over the years, as MP, Senator, and now Governor, we have worked closely in advancing shared goals for our people,” he said.

“I also had the honour of serving as Senate Majority Whip, a role that further deepened our cooperation and mutual respect. These are not small matters, and I acknowledge them with appreciation.”

However, he underscored the need for a shift in leadership approach, calling for politics anchored on persuasion, dialogue and respect, rather than confrontation.

“Leadership must be anchored in persuasion, not pressure; in dialogue, not coercion,” he said, warning that rising political tensions risk undermining democratic values.

“My foremost responsibility is to the people who entrusted me with leadership. That mandate requires independent judgment, candour, and decisions that safeguard both their immediate interests and long-term prosperity. I have shared my views openly within the party and engaged in candid discussions at the highest level. While those engagements have been respectful, we have not reached full convergence.”

The governor also outlined what he considers key areas for economic transformation, highlighting manufacturing, education and health as priority sectors.

He proposed full funding for free day secondary education, estimated at Sh40 billion annually, alongside increased investment in teacher quality and infrastructure.

On manufacturing, he called for lower power costs, export-driven incentives and the establishment of industrial zones to boost local production and job creation.

In the health sector, Kang’ata emphasised strengthening primary healthcare, ensuring a consistent supply of essential medicines and expanding insurance coverage sustainably.

Despite signalling a future political realignment, Kang’ata said he remains a committed member of UDA and will continue to work with the national government until the end of the current term.

“In light of this, and after careful reflection, I wish to state that when the appropriate time comes, I will not seek to defend my seat on the party’s ticket. I will, at a later stage, communicate the platform through which I will present myself to the electorate,” he said.

“Until then, I remain a disciplined and committed member of the party. I will continue to serve diligently in my current capacity and to cooperate with the national government in delivering development to our people. I will remain loyal to the party and to the President through the remainder of this term, up to the 2027 general election.”

He added that he will announce the platform under which he intends to vie at a later stage.