By Bernard Munyao
A section of political leaders from the Mt. Kenya region has come out strongly in support of Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, backing her for consideration as the country’s next Deputy President ahead of the 2027 general election.
The leaders made their position known during a women empowerment programme held at Rurii Stadium in Mathioya Constituency on Thursday where they praised Waiguru’s leadership record and described her as a capable and experienced candidate for the second-highest office in the land.
Led by Mathioya MP Edwin Mugo, the delegation included Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari and nominated Senator Veronica Maina, among other leaders.
They pointed to Waiguru’s track record as a two-term governor saying her performance in Kirinyaga County speaks for itself.
Mugo described Waiguru as a development-oriented leader with the capacity to serve at a higher national level.
He noted that her leadership experience and achievements make her a strong contender for the Deputy President’s position.
“She has proven herself as a leader who delivers. Her record in Kirinyaga shows she can handle bigger responsibilities at the national level,” said Mugo.
At the same time, the leaders emphasized that Waiguru’s elevation would be a significant step toward achieving the constitutional requirement of the two-thirds gender rule, which seeks to enhance women’s representation in leadership.
On her part, Senator Maina said the country is ready to have a female Deputy President, adding that Waiguru possesses all the qualities needed to serve in that role.
She called on leaders from the Mt. Kenya region to unite and support Waiguru’s bid noting “This is the right time for the country to embrace women leadership at the highest levels. Waiguru has what it takes.”
During the event, Waiguru sought to consolidate her support base among women in Murang’a County.
She revealed that she had engaged more than 2,000 members drawn from over 100 women groups and also extended financial support to boost their economic initiatives.
The governor used the platform to highlight the importance of empowering women economically saying it is key to strengthening families and communities.
Waiguru also led the leaders in drumming up support for the ruling Kenya Kwanza administration observing that its development record is visible across the country.
She argued that the progress made so far justifies the re-election of President William Ruto.
The show of support for Waiguru comes just a day after Ndia MP George Kariuki, who is also seen as eyeing the Deputy President position, visited the same constituency during the launch of a road project.
The growing political activity in the region signals the beginning of what is shaping up to be a competitive race for the Deputy President slot with Mt. Kenya leaders increasingly position themselves ahead of the next general election.
Mt Kenya Times