Priscillah Murungi expressed relief and support after her husband, former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, announced his retirement from active politics.
She said it was the right moment for him to step back, focus on new pursuits, and dedicate time to other meaningful aspects of life beyond politics.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 27, after receiving an honorary doctorate from Laikipia University for his distinguished public service and leadership, Dr. Kiraitu reflected on a career spanning more than three decades.
“I have learnt my lessons,” he said, “and after more than 30 years in active politics, it is time to call it quits.”
Kiraitu first entered politics in 1992, winning a seat in the House of Representatives. He later served as a cabinet minister under President Mwai Kibaki, won the Meru Senate seat in 2013, and was elected governor in 2017.
He lost the 2022 gubernatorial election to Kawira Mwangaza.
In 2023, he was appointed by President William Ruto as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOCK) for a three-year term.
He admitted that losing the 2022 election almost led him into depression, saying, “I had known nothing else for over 30 years, and I never want to go back to that place.”
Kiraitu now plans to champion happiness advocacy through lessons learned in a nine-month intensive counselling and training program.
He described his approach as “low volume politics,” focusing on advisory roles while mentoring younger leaders eager for elective positions.
