Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has urged political leaders to stop dragging retired President Uhuru Kenyatta into current political debates, saying those holding elective positions should concentrate on delivering on the mandates entrusted to them by voters.
Governor Wamatangi said Mr Kenyatta left office four years ago and should be allowed to enjoy his retirement without being repeatedly drawn into political controversies.
Speaking during Holy Mass at Francis of Assisi Ngenia–Miguta Parish in Ngewa Ward, Githunguri Sub-County, Mr Wamatangi said Kenya faces pressing challenges that require the attention of leaders currently in office rather than endless discussions about the former president.
“The country has bigger problems than Uhuru. We have very many problems that should be looked at by the country’s leaders, not what Uhuru said or what he is doing,” the governor said.
Mr Wamatangi questioned why elected leaders should continue focusing on statements and actions by a former president instead of addressing the concerns of their constituents.
He said the country had established a tradition of allowing retired presidents to step away from active politics and spend their later years away from the pressures of public office.
The governor cited the examples of the late presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki, who retired from active politics after leaving State House.
“Moi left the seat and went to Kabarak. He stayed and rested until the years God granted him. Kibaki came, finished his work, we let him go, and he went to Othaya,” he said.
Mr Wamatangi said the same courtesy should be extended to Mr Kenyatta, who handed over power to President William Ruto in September 2022.
“Now, how is it that Uhuru has come here to rest at his place? Are we not going to let him be? Let him rest,” he said.
The governor said leaders currently in office should be judged by their performance and ability to deliver services rather than by their association with former political leaders.
He urged politicians to adopt a more responsible approach to public debate, warning against what he described as attempts to keep alive political controversies that no longer serve the interests of Kenyans.
“Those of us who are in power, we are the ones who have work to do. Elected leaders, we are the ones who have work to do,” Mr Wamatangi said.
He challenged leaders to speak truthfully and focus on issues affecting ordinary citizens, including development and service delivery.
“Let us be people of truth. Let us be serious and be people who say things as they are,” he said.
The governor’s remarks come as political activity begins to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, with former President Kenyatta’s political influence in the Mt Kenya region remaining a subject of debate among rival political formations.
Mr Wamatangi, however, maintained that the priority for leaders should be the responsibilities they were elected to discharge rather than political personalities who have already left office.
He said leaders should provide direction to both the country and their respective counties by focusing on development and addressing the challenges facing residents.
The governor also used the church service to encourage residents to remain committed to their responsibilities and to serve with dedication.
Quoting Colossians 3:23-24, he said: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Mr Wamatangi said the message was a reminder that public service should be approached with commitment, integrity and a sense of responsibility.
He called on leaders to focus their energies on the work before them and leave retired political leaders to their private lives.
The governor’s message was also framed around the need for leaders to provide tangible results to citizens rather than spend their time trading political accusations.
He said the people of Kenya and Kiambu County expect those holding office to demonstrate seriousness, honesty and commitment to development.
“Let us lead the country with the direction it should go and the county with the direction it should go,” he said.
The governor wished residents a blessed week after the church service.
