A section of Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) from Meru County have called on President William Ruto to appoint Senator Kathuri Muriungi as a Cabinet Secretary, citing his development record and unifying leadership.
Led by Kisima MCA and County Assembly Majority Leader Patrick Mutuma, the MCAs argued that Meru has historically held significant representation in national leadership, including two Cabinet positions in past regimes, a trend they feel should continue under the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Mutuma lauded Senator Kathuri as a leader who promotes inclusivity and equity, adding that his efforts to support grassroots leaders, even those who did not win in the 2022 General Elections.
“To show his commitment and unity, he picked two leaders from every constituency who did not make it in the last General Election to work in his office, despite the limited resources.
“During the 2022 elections, he personally supported my campaign when I was struggling financially. He paid for my posters, gave me a car, and even campaigned with me. As his foot soldiers, we fully support his appointment as a CS to help develop Meru,” Mutuma said.
He also claimed that some leaders were opposing Kathuri’s potential elevation out of jealousy and fear of his rising influence.
“We demand the national government to hear our voices. Kathuri has the potential to elevate Meru politically and economically,” Mutuma added.
His remarks were echoed by other MCAs, including Kinyua Muuna (Nyaki East), Kirima Mubichi (Nyaki West), ZK Kinya (nominated), and Doris Gakii (nominated). They emphasized that their support for Kathuri was not an attempt to displace current Water CS Eric Mugaa, but rather a call for equitable representation.
“Each of the past regimes appointed two Cabinet Secretaries from Meru, except for Ruto’s administration. These leaders played key roles in development and representation. If Kathuri is appointed, it will restore regional balance and strengthen our community’s voice in government,” said Kinya.
Gakii praised Kathuri for his leadership experience and governance record.
Muuna said that the senator could do more for the county in a Cabinet position, where resources are more readily available, than in his current role.
