Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has defended his deputy, David Kinaniri Waroe, after remarks about the use of a county vehicle sparked questions over their working relationship.
Kahiga said the incident, which involved a driver attached to the deputy governor, had been cited only as an example of the need for county officials to protect public resources.
The governor had earlier said he saw an official vehicle moving around Nyeri town late at night, between 11pm and midnight. He said he followed it and later discovered that the driver was using it without authorisation.
Speaking to Inooro TV over the weekend, Kahiga said his comments had been taken out of context and were not intended as a criticism of Waroe.
“We should understand the context in which I was speaking. I was addressing a performance contracting event where I emphasised the need to take care of county resources,” Kahiga said.
He added that Waroe was not involved in the incident.
“The deputy governor had nothing to do with it. It was his driver who took his official vehicle on a Saturday without authorisation,” Kahiga said.
Kahiga said the episode was ultimately meant to reinforce the importance of responsible use of public property and limiting unnecessary spending.
“We must curb wastage. Let the little money that Nyeri receives be used prudently for the benefit of our people,” he said.
The governor also sought to put to rest suggestions of tension between him and his deputy, describing their working relationship as “perfect”.
He said he had even faced criticism for supporting Waroe’s political ambitions.
“I’m always accused of supporting him to succeed me. After all, a deputy should aspire to become governor,” Kahiga said.
Waroe, he added, would have to convince voters that he was capable of leading the county and delivering on his promises.
Kahiga eyes Senate
With his second term as governor eventually coming to an end, Kahiga said he intends to seek the Nyeri Senate seat.
He said he still had the energy to serve and was concerned about protecting the progress he believes Nyeri has made under his administration.
“When I look at the people jostling for this seat, I’m convinced that Nyeri needs a leader who will speak and get heard,” Kahiga said.
Kahiga said the senator’s role was particularly important in protecting devolution and overseeing the use of county funds.
He argued that his experience as governor would place him in a strong position to represent Nyeri’s interests in the Senate.
“Senate has two roles: to speak for devolution and to provide oversight of county funds,” he said.
Kahiga also said governors who have completed a full term should consider moving to the Senate, arguing that their experience gives them a better understanding of the challenges facing devolved governments.
He cited former Mandera Governor Ali Roba as an example, saying Roba had helped push for a fairer share of national resources for counties and the transfer of functions that remain under the national government.
Kahiga’s declaration places him among the politicians positioning themselves for the Nyeri Senate contest as the 2027 elections approach.
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