Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga was notably absent as President William Ruto convened a meeting with leaders from the Mt Kenya region at State House on Monday.
The gathering, attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, seven governors, Cabinet Secretaries, and Principal Secretaries from the region, focused on development initiatives ahead of the president’s planned tour of the area next month.
Kahiga, who has recently aligned himself with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s camp, has yet to explain his absence, despite some leaders from Nyeri raising concerns over his decision to skip the meeting.
Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi questioned Kahiga’s absence, emphasizing the importance of the discussions that took place.
“As a resident of Nyeri, I have every right to ask you why you missed a meeting called by the head of state to discuss Nyeri development…,” Wamumbi remarked.
While the meeting proceeded, Governor Kahiga remained in Nyeri County, where he participated in various engagements.
“Accompanied by my Deputy David Kinaniri, I officially signed the declaration designating Nyeri County as the official scout city of the world,” he shared on his official platforms.
“Thereafter, we proceeded to Baden Powell Memorial Gardens…,” he added.
Sources from State House revealed that the meeting aimed to evaluate ongoing projects in the region and coordinate upcoming launches.
“We discussed the key programmes and projects we are implementing to spur the region’s socio-economic transformation,” President Ruto stated.
Among those present were Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma, Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu, Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki, Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha.
This meeting followed another held on March 20, which brought together elected leaders from Mt Kenya.
During his upcoming tour, President Ruto is expected to address concerns within the agricultural sector, particularly tea, coffee, miraa, and dairy farming. He is also set to launch various development projects, including affordable housing and fresh produce markets.
Governor Badilisha highlighted that the leaders agreed on a structured approach to meet the expectations of the people and implement key government interventions.
Waiguru echoed similar sentiments, stating that the discussions centered on aligning county and national priorities to accelerate development, improve service delivery, and foster economic growth in the region.
Meanwhile, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, who was also expected at the meeting, was reportedly out of the country.