Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has defended his decision to join the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), saying it was the most appropriate political choice because many of his supporters identify with the party.
Speaking during an interview on NTV on Wednesday, Kang'ata said remaining outside DCP would have placed his supporters in what he described as an unfair position by forcing them to choose between supporting him and remaining loyal to the party.
The governor said he considered the move carefully before formally joining DCP, adding that leadership also requires respecting the political preferences of the people one serves.
"I think it is the right thing to do," Kang'ata said.
"You do not want a situation where you put Murang'a people into making a choice between their loyalty to DCP and their support for you. I don't think that is fair."
Kang'ata said he believes many residents have developed a strong attachment to the party and that leaders should acknowledge and respect such political choices.
He said leadership is not only about charting one's own course but also about listening to and understanding the wishes of the electorate.
"Leadership, in my view, includes having the humility to be led. You are not the wisest person who ever came into this world," he said.
The governor noted that while he may not fully explain why many residents have embraced DCP, he considers it important to recognise those sentiments when making political decisions.
He also said leaders should seek to understand the issues that shape public opinion while remaining responsive to the concerns expressed by citizens.
Kang'ata formally joined DCP earlier this month after previously indicating that he would not seek re-election on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket.
Before announcing his move to DCP, the governor had publicly associated himself with the Linda Mwananchi movement, saying he appreciated its national outlook and youthful leadership while maintaining that he would eventually contest on a DCP ticket.
During the interview, Kang'ata described Linda Mwananchi as a platform that accommodates leaders from different political parties and said the movement and DCP are not mutually exclusive.
He said he intends to continue supporting both initiatives, adding that he sees himself as a link between the two formations.
"I will definitely vie on a DCP ticket," he said.
The governor also reiterated that DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua remains his political leader, while expressing optimism about the role Linda Mwananchi could continue to play in the country's political landscape.
Kang'ata's remarks come as political alignments continue to take shape ahead of the 2027 General Election, with parties and political movements positioning themselves for the next electoral contest.
