Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata revealed on Sunday, October 13, 2024, how he learned of his name being mentioned as a frontrunner for the Deputy President position if the Senate upholds the impeachment motion against Rigathi Gachagua.
During a TV interview, Kang’ata shared that he was busy with his county duties when the news broke and expressed his humility at being considered a potential candidate.
“The news came while we were distributing fertilizer and maize to our 57,000 farmers in preparation for the short rains starting in mid-October. It was quite humbling to see my name being floated around,” Kang’ata remarked.
However, he stressed that it is premature to delve deeper into the issue since it is currently in court and the Senate has yet to reach a decision.
“I believe it is sub judice for me to comment in detail because there are ongoing court cases. Additionally, the Senate is still considering this matter, and it is ultimately up to the president to make the decision,” he added.
Should the Deputy President position become vacant, President Ruto’s options appear limited to candidates from the Central Kenya region. Speculation suggests that Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki may be the best fit, with Kang’ata and Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru also emerging as potential contenders.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro was seen as a frontrunner; however, his chances faded after he failed to sign the impeachment motion notice and did not participate in the voting.
After a long break from politics to focus on his legal career, Kang’ata gained public attention by successfully representing security guard Rebecca Kerubo in her case against former Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza.
Since then, he has won every elective position he has contested, serving as Kiharu MP in 2013, Murang’a Senator in 2017, and being elected Governor in the 2022 General Elections.
