Concerns as Governor Susan Kihika overstays in the US fro 5 months

Nakuru-based activist Evans Kimori has taken the unprecedented step of petitioning U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene in the prolonged absence of Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, who has been away from her official duties for five months.

Kimori’s petition, submitted earlier this week, urges the U.S. administration to address the situation, citing concerns over governance and service delivery in Nakuru County.​

In the petition, Kimori states that while the Nakuru Governor is enjoying quality healthcare abroad, Nakuru citizens are suffering as three hospitals in the county have been closed.

“For five months, Nakuru residents have been left in the dark about the whereabouts of their elected leader. This is unacceptable,” Kimori said. “If an ordinary citizen misses work for even a week, there are consequences. Why should those in power be held to different standards?”

Governor Kihika’s Absence and Public Concern

Governor Kihika, who holds dual citizenship in Kenya and the United States, has been notably absent from public engagements since November 2024. Her last public appearance was on November 18, 2024, during the graduation ceremony of over 4,000 students from various Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions in Nakuru County.

This extended absence has raised concerns among residents and local leaders about the continuity of county projects and the overall governance of the region.

In the interim, Deputy Governor David Kones has been overseeing county operations. However, stakeholders emphasize the need for a permanent resolution to ensure the effective delivery of services and the advancement of development projects in Nakuru County.

Activist’s Petition to the U.S. President

In his petition, Kimori appeals to President Trump to “deport” Governor Kihika’s to ensure she meets her leadership obligations in Nakuru County. He argues that the prolonged absence undermines the principles of democratic governance and adversely affects the delivery of essential services to the residents.​

“We have reached out to the county leadership for answers, but all we get are dismissive statements. The people of Nakuru deserve to know who is running their affairs,” he added.

Why Trump?

Kimori’s decision to reach out to Trump has sparked debate, with critics questioning the relevance of the former U.S. president in Kenya’s internal governance matters. In his petition, Kimori cited Trump’s vocal stance on leadership accountability during his time in office and argued that his influence on global governance could help pressure Kenyan authorities to address Nakuru’s leadership vacuum.

“I am calling on President Trump, as a leader who has previously spoken against poor governance, to use his platform to highlight this matter. The people of Nakuru deserve answers,” Kimori wrote.

He further added, “Trump has never shied away from calling out bad governance. While some may dismiss this petition, we need international voices to amplify our demand for accountability.”

Maternity leave

Amid growing speculation, Governor Kihika addressed the public on January 17, 2025, clarifying that her absence was due to maternity leave. She assured Nakuru residents of her well-being and reaffirmed her commitment to her gubernatorial duties, stating that she would resume office in the coming weeks.

Senator Tabitha Karanja asks Governor Kihika to Resign

The situation has sparked political tensions within Nakuru County. Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja issued an ultimatum to Governor Kihika, demanding her immediate resignation due to her absence and recent legal challenges. Senator Karanja threatened to initiate impeachment proceedings if the governor failed to comply.

Court slaps Kihika with 6-month jail time for contempt

Adding to the complexity, the High Court recently sentenced Governor Kihika and Nakuru Water and Sanitation Services Company (Nawasco) Managing Director James Ng’ang’a to a six-month jail term or a fine of Ksh 2 million each for contempt of court. The court found them guilty of unlawfully dumping waste into Lake Nakuru, a violation of environmental regulations.

Public Reactions

Residents of Nakuru have expressed mixed reactions to the governor’s absence and the subsequent developments. While some empathize with her maternity leave, others are concerned about the lack of clear communication and the impact on county operations. Kimrori’s petition is a clear indication of a growing public concern and need for accountability.