Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has announced that he will not seek re-election on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in the 2027 General Election, signaling a major political shift in the Mt. Kenya region.

In a statement issued over the weekend and reinforced through media interviews, Kang’ata pointed to growing disagreements with the party’s direction, unmet manifesto commitments, and what he described as waning support for UDA in his home region.

“After extensive consultations with the people of Murang’a, I have come to the conclusion that I cannot, in good conscience, seek re-election under the UDA banner,” Kang’ata said. “The political mood on the ground is changing, and it is important to remain aligned with the people.”

The governor, who has been an ally of President William Ruto since 2013, expressed concern that the ruling party risks undermining itself by adopting tactics similar to those it once opposed.

“It is ironic that UDA, which gained popularity partly due to perceived persecution, now appears to be repeating the same approach,” he stated. “When leaders are targeted, they often gain public sympathy, and that is something the party should reflect on.”

Kang’ata also raised concerns about what he termed as political marginalization of leaders from the Mt. Kenya region, warning that such dynamics could further erode the party’s influence in a region that was instrumental in its 2022 victory.

“I have seen how politics is evolving in this region, and if things continue this way, the outcome for UDA may not be favourable,” he added.

The governor revealed that he had privately shared his concerns with President Ruto following a recent Murang’a investment conference but said their discussions did not yield a consensus on the region’s political strategy.

Despite the differences, Kang’ata maintained that his relationship with the President remains respectful and that he will continue working with the national government for the benefit of Murang’a residents.

“I remain committed to serving the people and cooperating with the national government until the end of my term,” he said.

Political analyst Munene Macharia described the move as a significant development that could reshape political alignments ahead of 2027. “This decision has the potential to influence voter sentiment in Mt. Kenya and beyond,” Macharia observed.

Meanwhile, UDA insiders, including National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, have dismissed Kang’ata’s stance, accusing him of inconsistency.

Kang’ata, however, has downplayed speculation about higher political ambitions, clarifying that he has no intention of running for president or deputy president.

“My focus is not on national office at this point,” he said. “At the appropriate time, I will communicate the political path I intend to take.”