Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has clarified his political stance regarding President William Ruto, emphasising that their personal friendship should not be misconstrued as automatic political alignment.

Speaking in an interview with a local TV interviewer on Sunday, May 3, 2026, Kang’ata noted that while he shares a close personal relationship with the head of state, recent narratives suggesting a fallout between them are misleading. He dismissed claims of a personal dispute, stressing that any differences between them are purely political and not rooted in personal animosity.

“William Ruto is a very good personal friend. I feel so bad that some people are trying to frame this as a personal tiff. No, just like in any democracy, we can have political disagreements,” Kang’ata stated.

The governor underscored the importance of separating personal relationships from political decisions, a stance that reflects the evolving dynamics within Kenya’s political landscape. He maintained that his support for Ruto in future elections is not guaranteed at this stage, making it clear that such a decision will be made at the appropriate time.

“I have nothing personal against Ruto. I will decide on whether I will vote for him when the time comes, not now,” he added.

Kang’ata ditches UDA

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata was speaking hours after his announcement that he will not seek re-election on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in the 2027 general election.

Speaking to the media on Sunday, May 3, 2026, Kang’ata said the decision followed internal efforts to resolve differences within the party, including a direct engagement with President William Ruto that failed to yield a consensus.

Kang’ata revealed that he had held a candid, one-on-one discussion with the head of state in a bid to align on key issues and acknowledged that they did not reach an agreement.

The governor maintained that his decision was guided by the will of the people, emphasising that leadership must reflect public sentiment.

“His Excellency, the president, has always told us that the people are supreme. Thank you for that statement, and therefore, my responsibility is to adhere to what the people have told me. In light of that, because I have tried my best to have these issues resolved internally, I have had a candid discussion with His Excellency the president one-on-one, where we shared these ideas, but we did not reach what we call ‘full convergence’,” he said.

Kang’ata’s remarks come amid heightened political realignments and growing speculation about alliances ahead of the next general election in 2027. His statement signals a cautious and calculated approach, suggesting that prevailing circumstances rather than personal ties will guide political loyalty.