Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Ndia MP GK Kariuki. Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Reporter
A fierce war of words has erupted between Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Ndia MP GK Kariuki, signaling early political tension as the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) grassroots elections take place in more than 20 counties.
The exchange comes amid speculation over who will control the party’s structures in Kirinyaga County ahead of the 2027 general elections.
On Friday, Governor Waiguru openly dared Kariuki to contest for the county’s gubernatorial seat on a UDA ticket, questioning his credibility as a party leader. “If you are a man… if the one competing with me is a real man, he should come out, wear our UDA jersey, and contest for Kirinyaga gubernatorial seat and win. However, until you are elected as Kirinyaga governor, you can’t claim to be their leader. Who has given you that seat?” Waiguru asked during a public address.
She added that leadership in the party cannot be taken through the “back door” and emphasized that all members, regardless of when they joined, should be treated equally. “We also brought value to the party. There are some people with their parties [in UDA], but they don’t have people. We are not in the party because of you, but because of the party leader, William Ruto. Let’s therefore respect each other as leaders,” Waiguru said.
Kariuki fires back
In response, GK Kariuki hit back at Waiguru in a sharp retort, calling her accusations baseless. “Relax, Mama Ufisadi. I hear you are having sleepless nights and seeing GK in everything and everywhere. Wacha nikusaidie. I am not merely coordinating party elections in one county, but across our entire region. Unlike you, I do not have a preferred county lineup because I am not a divider, but a uniter,” Kariuki stated.
Read more: Waiguru: Gachagua allies are wooing me to join DCP
He also emphasized fairness during the ongoing UDA elections, noting that winners and losers alike are party supporters and should not feel humiliated. Kariuki’s response highlighted his growing ambition, as he is widely expected to vie for the county’s gubernatorial seat in 2027.
2027 gubernatorial race shapes up
The political showdown is expected to intensify in the coming months. Waiguru has hinted at her readiness to seek a national position, potentially leaving the Kirinyaga gubernatorial seat open for new contenders.
Read more: Rice imports: Waiguru accuses State of ‘ignoring’ Mwea farmers
GK Kariuki is positioning himself as a key candidate, while Kirinyaga Senator Kamau Murango has also announced his interest in contesting the governorship on a Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) ticket.
Political analysts note that the rivalry between Waiguru and Kariuki could influence grassroots party dynamics in the county, shaping UDA’s support base ahead of the next general elections. The unfolding contest underscores the broader competition for influence within the ruling party as leaders prepare for both county and national positions.
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