Wa Iria declares himself Mt. Kenya Kingpin

Thika,

Friday, November 10, 2023

KNA by Muoki Charles

Former Murang’a Governor Mwangi Wa Iria has declared himself the de facto leader of the Mt. Kenya region claiming he had the prerequisite qualifications to take over as the kingpin.

He told a press conference in Thika that he had proven that he was not a coward and had what it takes to assume the leadership mantle in the region, since he had also vied for the country's top seat in the last general elections. 

The former governor argued that, unlike other leaders who have declared themselves the region's kingpin, he has also come out strongly to defend Kenyans against the high cost of living during the antigovernment demonstrations early this year.

"For one to become a kingpin, he or she must have contested first for the highest seat. All of those declaring themselves kingpins bolted out. Look at former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka who is the Kamba kingpin and former Prime Minister Raila presidential seat who is the Luo kingpin, they have all vied for the presidency. I vied, but the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) struck me out. At least I tried, not a coward like the others, " said Wa Iria. 

Among those recently touted to become the region's kingpin are Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo and former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga.

Recently, the Deputy president distanced himself from the kingship debate saying he is already occupied with national matters adding that the seat isn't enshrined in the constitution and that those who are talking about it are busy bodies.

On the state of the nation, Wa Iria said the economy is doing badly and called on the government to listen to the cries of Kenyans. 

The former governor said as the opposition group, they are waiting for the conclusion of the bi-partisan talk and their recommendations, especially on the cost of living.

"If the recommendations do not address the cost of fuel, health care, cost of food and education, then I will not be part of it. Even if Raila and Kalonzo agree with it, I won't and will ask Kenyans to reject it," he said. 

Courtesy; KNA