The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has defended her decision to remain aligned with President William Ruto’s administration, insisting that political relationships are based on shared interests rather than personal loyalty.
Responding to criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Waiguru said politicians should not be expected to maintain permanent alliances, as political partnerships evolve depending on circumstances and priorities.
“Politics is about interests, not a love affair,” she said, emphasizing that political decisions should be guided by what benefits the people rather than personal attachments.
She also criticized Gachagua over what she described as inconsistencies in his political stance, particularly regarding former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Waiguru questioned how Gachagua had frequently criticized Uhuru while serving in government but now presents himself as one of the former president’s strongest defenders.
Her remarks came amid ongoing tensions following Gachagua’s criticism of Waiguru and fellow UDA governors Susan Kihika and Cecily Mbarire during campaigns for the Ol Kalou by-election. Gachagua alleged that the women leaders repeatedly returned to their vehicles to reapply makeup in an effort to appear younger and attract male youth voters. He also mocked their dancing during campaign events, claiming it failed to impress young voters.
The comments sparked widespread criticism from women’s rights groups and political leaders, who accused Gachagua of making sexist and demeaning remarks about female politicians.
Addressing the issue, Waiguru questioned why her appearance had become a subject of political debate, referencing Gachagua’s claims that she wears makeup.
She reiterated that political alliances should always be evaluated based on the interests they serve, maintaining that personal relationships have little place in politics.
Waiguru further urged Mt Kenya residents not to expect moral perfection from political leaders, arguing that politics is not a religious institution and that every leader has shortcomings.
She reaffirmed that she has no intention of leaving the government, saying her continued support for Ruto’s administration is guided by what she believes is best for Kirinyaga County and the wider Mt Kenya region.
The governor also cautioned residents against taking the region’s long-standing access to government for granted, noting that Mt Kenya has benefited from being part of successive administrations. She compared the situation to someone who has never experienced hardship and therefore assumes prosperity is guaranteed.
Highlighting the benefits of remaining close to government, Waiguru pointed to Kirinyaga’s road infrastructure, urging residents to compare the county’s development with that of neighboring counties.
