President Uhuru Kenyatta would still remain in public limelight even after his retirement in 2022, Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has said, adding that he should be respected.
In recent weeks, a section of leaders from Uhuru's Kiambu backyard have been traversing the country, with Governor Ferdinand Waititu leading the team.
But Mr Murungi and nominated MP Maina Kamanda have fired back, insisting that Uhuru will still remain relevant in Mt Kenya politics even after his anticipated exit.
“I want to send a message to Kiambu leaders, please do not bring us shame,” said the Meru Governor when he addressed religious leaders who had paid a courtesy call to him.
“President Uhuru Kenyatta is our leader. In Mt. Kenya region, we do not have any other leader. We respect him the same way Raila Odinga is respected in Nyanza,” said Kiraitu.
According to Kamanda, those rebelling against the President risk losing their seats in 2022. He accused them on Sunday for allegedly undermining the president.
“Uhuru is the leader of Mt. Kenya region. And he will continue to be our leader even after 2022,” said Kamanda.“If they do not stop what they are doing, their political careers will end. They know that.”
President Uhuru Kenyatta has struggled to stamp his authority in Mt Kenya region, with MPs Kimani Ichungwah, Ndindi Nyoro and Governor Waititu leading onslaught against him.