By Alex Njeru
Tharaka-Nithi County Assembly has announced new changes in its House leadership, with Justine Kithinji of Magumoni ward, Chuka/Igambang’ombe constituency, taking over as the new Majority Leader.
He will be deputized by nominated MCA Lucy Muthoni Ndiga.
The changes were communicated by Chief Whip Jones Kinegeni, who is also the MCA for Mwimbi ward in Maara constituency, and read out to the House by Speaker John Mbabu.
The duo immediately replaces Luke Nyaga Marengo of Mukothima ward and his deputy Joseph Kinyua of Chiakariga ward.
In his farewell remarks, outgoing Majority Leader Marengo extended an olive branch to the incoming team, thanking fellow legislators for the opportunity to serve. He noted that “leadership is not war but a calling to serve.”
Other key positions—including Deputy Speaker held by Leonard Gitonga of Nkondi ward, Majority Whip Jones Kinegeni, and Deputy Minority Whip Wanja Karuku (nominated MCA)—remain unchanged.
The reshuffle comes after heightened disagreements among a section of United Democratic Alliance (UDA) MCAs, which led to altercations in the House.
Marengo was accused of sabotaging the government’s agenda, particularly during the tabling of the 2025/2026 budget, when he allegedly mobilized colleagues to vote against it. The budget was eventually passed.
This marks a comeback for Kithinji, who previously held the Majority Leader’s position before it was handed to Marengo.
Meanwhile, residents have urged MCAs to put aside personal wars and focus on their constitutional mandate.
Mr. Mark Mutegi, a resident of Mukothima ward, faulted some MCAs from Tharaka constituency for dragging the names of Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki and Governor Muthomi Njuki into their disagreements.
“We need a united county that does not shame the Deputy President,” said Mr. Mutegi.
The Mount Kenya Times 
Felix Njenga