President William Ruto acknowledged Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru’s unexpected departure from then-President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jubilee party during the Women Governors’ Caucus G7 Strategy Summit in Nairobi.
Ruto praised Waiguru’s decision, emphasizing the bravery it required amidst the political climate, especially with Uhuru supporting opposition leader Raila Odinga.
Ruto reflected on the significance of women’s courage in political decisions, citing Waiguru’s choice to join their team despite her prominent position within Jubilee. Her move to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party in 2021 was met with surprise and destabilized previous assumptions regarding gubernatorial endorsements.
Speculation had circulated prior to Waiguru’s departure about her slim chances of retaining her gubernatorial seat.
Her decision altered the expected trajectory, leading to Purity Ngirici’s departure from UDA and subsequent independent candidacy. Despite the challenges, Waiguru emerged victorious in the election, securing 113,088 votes against Ngirici’s 105,677 votes.
In her victory speech, Waiguru attributed her success to divine intervention, expressing gratitude for the strength and grace that enabled her to persevere through the difficult period. Despite her political realignment, Waiguru has maintained a working relationship with Ruto in her role as the Council of Governors Chairperson.
