Kirinyaga County Governor, Anne Mumbi Waiguru, on Tuesday, January 18, opened up on her relationship with President Uhuru Kenyatta since joining the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Waiguru defected from the ruling Jubilee Party and joined UDA, a party affiliated with Deputy President William Ruto on October 26, 2021.

Speaking during an interview on TV47, the Kirinyaga County boss responded to questions on whether the move had affected her relationship with the Head of State. 

“I think we would not mix the two. His Excellency is a very mature politician who has been in politics for many years,” she noted.

The former Cabinet Secretary for Devolution termed the President as an understanding leader. Notably, she declared that she had Uhuru’s support.

“I know he understands why I had to join UDA and I think he would wish me all the best,” she added

Waiguru revealed that before defecting, she had a candid conversation with her party leader (Uhuru) and explained to him why she had to exit.

“I did, I mentioned the situation as it was and how I understand the ground and that I would be making a political decision. The explanation was basically out of respect.

“He understands that people do make political decisions based on their own lives. He expects people to make rational decisions which are best for their own political careers,” the county boss stated.

The Governor asserted that her defection from the ruling party was inevitable as she, alongside other members, was not pleased by the manner in which it was run.

She opined that the issues in the party should have been resolved promptly but they were not addressed.

“We had been raising the issue of revamping the party and rebranding it as well as changing the management style, and a lot of it was not being addressed at the time,” stated Waiguru.