Kivutha Kibwana reveals interest in serving at national level amid senatorial bid speculations
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, May 18, 2026Former Makueni Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana has hinted at a possible return to active public service at the national level, amid growing speculation linking him to a future senatorial bid in Makueni County.
Delivering a reflective message in an interview with a local radio station on Monday, May 18, 2026, Kibwana said he is happy in academia and would consider taking up a higher responsibility in the country if it were called for.
“I am very comfortable as a teacher at two universities. People do come from retirement when it is necessary and when the situation continues to be dire…. I am happy to serve in any capacity, and although I am in the classroom now, if an opportunity arose to do more than teaching, I have come to a position where I think I might not be able to say no,” Kiviutha said.
PHOTO/@ProfKibwana/X
Kibwana’s political ambition
The former governor pointed out that retirement should be a move away from the public arena, but with the circumstances in the country calling for experienced leadership, this may be an exception to the rule. He stressed that he is on standby to serve in any capacity where his skills and experience can be utilised.
He said he feels good as a teacher at two universities and that he feels good in his current teaching position. If he got a chance, however, other than the classroom, to do something outside of teaching, particularly as a public leader, he might not have the ability to say no.
Kibwana also cleared the air on the current public push to run for the Senate in Makueni County. Kibwana told the media that he wasn’t sure about his candidacy but rather hinted at his country’s national service and working with leaders who are concerned with the welfare of citizens.
‘Of course, people have said, “Why don’t you be a senator in Makueni County?’ I am not sure about that. I think at the national level, if there was an opportunity to be of service and it was to work with like-minded people who really care for the citizens of Kenya, maybe now I would seriously reconsider it,” he added.
Kibwana’s political journey
He first rose to national prominence when he served in government as minister for lands during the late President Mwai Kibaki’s administration. In this role, he was involved in key policy discussions on land reform, a historically sensitive and critical issue in Kenya’s governance landscape. His stint in the cabinet made him part of the larger reformist wing in government at the time.
Kibwana later transitioned fully into elective politics, successfully running for governor of Makueni County in 2013 and securing re-election in 2017. As governor, he became widely known for promoting participatory governance, transparency, and grassroots-driven development models. His administration was often cited for its emphasis on public participation and accountability in county decision-making processes.