NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 26 – Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has formally joined the United Democratic Alliance which is associated with Deputy President William Ruto.
Waiguru who met Ruto at his official residence in Karen on Tuesday cited pressure from supporters and popularity of Bottom-Up Economic Model as factors that informed her decision.
“It is only a fool who can continue being in the same political path with the kind of pressure that I have been facing,” she said.
“You cannot dictate to them. I have shifted to support the Bottom-Up Economic Development Model,” she added.
The first term Governor had been sending signals that she would abandon the ruling Jubilee Party after the Courts declared the Building Bridges Initiative constitutional amendment process she previously supported as null and void.
The latest move will see Waiguru defend her gubernatorial seat on the UDA party ticket where she is likely to face Kirinyaga County Woman Representative Purity Ngirichi who has been a key ally of the Deputy President.
The Governor Waiguru was accompanied to the Deputy President’s Karen Residence by more than 25 MCAs.
Also present in the meeting were MPs George Kariuki (Ndia), Aisha Jumwa (Malindi), Susan Kihika (Nakuru), Rigathi Gachagua (Mathira) and Kimani Ichung’wah (Kikuyu).
Dr Ruto lauded Governor Waiguru and the people of Kirinyaga for the move that they had taken.
“It is a difficult bold but political decision; it will shape the future of our country,” said Dr Ruto.
He said Kenya will easily be transformed when leaders work together.
“We do not have a luxury of hate and division. We need everyone on board to confront our challenges.“
The Deputy President said the energy and focus that leaders used to forming Jubilee Party will be used in building UDA.
He said UDA was keen on having more women in political leadership.
“We will ensure that there is a conducive environment for women to seek leadership in our country,” he argued.
He assured political aspirants that there will be fair and just competition in the party.
“There is space to accommodate everyone in UDA. Let us embrace competition because it brings the best in us.”
Gachagua told Waiguru to prepare for a tough race ahead.
“They (Government) will harass you. But stay firm and continue serving the people of Kirinyaga,” he said.
