Irungu Kang’ata has announced that he will not seek re-election in 2027 under the United Democratic Alliance ticket, delivering a major political blow just hours after hosting William Ruto in Murang’a.
Speaking during a press conference on Sunday, Kang’ata said his decision followed pressure from within and outside the party, as well as unresolved internal differences.
He revealed that he had held candid talks with Ruto, but the discussions did not lead to full agreement.
Kang’ata said he will still defend his seat as governor in 2027 but under a different political platform, which he plans to unveil later.
He dismissed speculation that he is eyeing the presidency or deputy presidency, insisting his focus remains Murang’a County.
Despite the dramatic announcement, Kang’ata said he would remain loyal to Ruto and continue cooperating with the national government for the rest of the current term.
The move comes at a sensitive moment as political loyalties in the Mount Kenya Region continue to shift ahead of the 2027 elections, making Kang’ata one of the first major regional leaders to publicly signal departure from UDA.
