Irungu Kang’ata Says He Will Continue Speaking Truth Despite Intimidation by State

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has said he will continue speaking openly on national issues despite pressure from powerful people in government.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony of Murang’a Youth Service at Ihura Stadium, Kang’ata claimed that some state agencies are sometimes used to intimidate politicians who disagree with the government.

The governor said anti-corruption and security agencies have in the past been used against leaders under the excuse of fighting corruption. According to him, such actions are common whenever leaders fall out with those in power.

Kang’ata also mentioned incidents where governors’ homes were raided very early in the morning by police officers. He claimed some leaders have faced unnecessary force and harassment because of political differences.

He specifically mentioned the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), saying the agency has previously been used to fight political battles against certain leaders.

His remarks come just days after he announced that he may not seek re-election as Murang’a governor using the UDA party ticket in the 2027 General Election.

Kang’ata said his decision does not mean he has personal problems with President William Ruto, whom he described as a close friend. However, he admitted that they differ politically on some matters.

The Murang’a governor added that one of his concerns is how politics in the Mt Kenya region has been handled by the ruling party leadership.