By Gerald Mukembu
Philanthropist and businessman Henry Mwingirwa Labaita has officially declared his interest in the Tigania East parliamentary seat, positioning himself as a fresh and determined candidate against the area’s political veterans.
In an exclusive interview with Mwenda Sana TV, Labaita affirmed that his decision to enter politics is not driven by personal ambition but by a genuine calling to serve and transform the lives of the people of Tigania East.
Former Meru Governor Peter Munya and Tigania East aspirant Henry Labaita
“I’m not leaving the business world for politics to serve my own interests. I’ve been called to represent and change the lives of our people,” said Labaita.
He criticized the current MP, Mpuru Aburi, accusing him of using development as a tool to control and suppress the electorate rather than service delivery.
“Mpuru should consider upgrading and vying for the Senate seat in 2027. He’s had his time in Tigania and is known more for fighting governors than building the constituency,” Labaita said.
The businessman-turned-politician said he stands for clean and issue-based politics, in contrast to what he described as Mpuru’s confrontational and chaotic political style.
“As an academician, I will never engage in dirty or abusive politics. He fought Munya, whom he had campaigned for. Then he turned against Kiraitu, who was later defeated by Kawira Mwangaza. Now he’s fighting Mwangaza too. It’s a cycle. Let him graduate to the Senate,” Labaita remarked.
He also raised concerns over insecurity, poor roads, and lack of access to education in the area, stressing that true success comes when a community is uplifted collectively.
“No matter how successful you are, if your neighbor’s child can’t go to school or your road is impassable, you are still a slave to the same problems,” he said.
Labaita further accused Mpuru of hiring goons, allegedly fueling chaos during his opponents’ political gatherings after buying them illicit brews.
“You can’t even ask a question in his meetings without being beaten. It’s thuggery, not leadership,” he claimed.
While calling for peaceful and sober campaigns, Labaita emphasized the need to move away from violence and embrace the politics of development.
A native of Muthara, Labaita also highlighted his lineage, noting that he is related to former Meru Governor Peter Munya and former Tigania West MP Kilemi Mwiria.
“For the last 20 years I have been longing and willing to serve the people of Tigania East. I am ready to clean the mess and bring meaningful development to Tigania East,” he said.
