Kindiki backs MP George Murugara in Tharaka Nithi gubernatorial bid
By Mabonga Makhanu, May 18, 2026Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has expressed his support for Tharaka MP George Murugara in his bid for the Tharaka Nithi gubernatorial seat.
While holding a meeting with grassroots leaders from Tharaka Nithi, on Monday, May 18, 2026, the former senator wished Murugara success and good luck in his quest for the county’s top seat. Kindiki also extended his support to other aspirants, saying he wished them well in the race.
The Deputy President further signalled possible government appointments for those who may not succeed in the gubernatorial contest, stating that any candidate who fails should be brought to him.
He assured leaders that nobody taking part in the Tharaka-Nithi gubernatorial race, whether a winner or loser, would suffer, saying it was part of his responsibility to ensure everyone is accommodated.
“Didn’t I tell you that my help is small? Sina uwezo kabisa. Lakini, I wish you all the best. Na wale wote wanataka, nawatakia mema. Mwenye atapita, akue governor wenu; mwenye hatapita mniletee.”
Kindiki also urged residents of Tharaka Nithi to elect their next governor wisely and ensure they choose the best candidate for the county.
“Mimi sasa, nataka nikuhakikishie, you have the support of the government. In the next year, because you are not defending the constituency seat, ama umebadilika tena? You know, there is something I want to tell you all.”
Tharaka Nithi gubernatorial contest
The 2027 Tharaka Nithi gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a highly competitive contest triggered by the imminent departure of the incumbent, Governor Muthomi Njuki, who is serving his second and final term.
The wide-open seat has attracted a powerful pool of aspirants, including veteran Maara Member of Parliament Hon Japhet Kareke Mbiuki and Gitonga Murugara, both of whom are expected to battle fiercely for the dominant United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party ticket.
They face formidable competition from former Chuka University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Erastus Njoka, who maintains a strong institutional development track record, alongside County Woman Representative Hon. Susan Ngugi Mwindu, who is leveraging her county-wide mandate to champion the region’s shifting political dynamics.
Murugara’s political profile
George Murugara was first elected to Parliament in 2017 and has remained a strong supporter of President William Ruto and Kithure Kindiki since 2022. He was among the MPs who strongly supported the ouster of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and was also part of the legal team representing the National Assembly in court during the hearing of Gachagua’s impeachment case.