Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has addressed speculation surrounding his recent meeting with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, denying that it was related to discussions about replacing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Kang’ata clarified that the meeting, which took place on the morning of October 16, 2024, focused on other issues.
“The Right Honourable former Prime Minister Raila Odinga invited me this morning for consultations. We had a productive discussion on national cohesion and the progress we’ve made as a country under devolution,” Kang’ata wrote on X.
The meeting fueled social media rumors that Kang’ata had secured Raila’s backing as a candidate for Deputy President, in case Gachagua is removed by the Senate.
The speculation followed Kang’ata’s remarks on October 13, 2024, where he mentioned hearing his name among possible successors for Gachagua. Speaking on a local TV show, Kang’ata said the news surprised him while he was distributing fertilizer and maize to Murang’a farmers ahead of the short rains.
He described the mention of his name as a possible Deputy President candidate as “humbling.”
“The news came when we were distributing fertilizer and maize to our 57,000 farmers for the short rains, so it was quite humbling. I saw my name being floated,” Kang’ata said.
Despite the buzz, Kang’ata emphasized the need to respect the ongoing legal and political proceedings.
“It’s sub judice for me to discuss this deeply since there are court cases and the Senate is still deliberating. Ultimately, it’s the president’s discretion, and fairness dictates that he makes the decision,” Kang’ata noted.
In a recent Infotrak poll conducted on October 9, 2024, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki emerged as the top choice to replace Gachagua if the Senate upholds the impeachment. Kindiki received 20% of the support, while Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi both secured 5%. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro followed with 4% each.
Interestingly, only 2% of respondents supported Raila Odinga as a potential successor, and Kang’ata was not listed among the leading contenders.
