CS Kuria makes U-turn, defends Kiambu Governor from critics

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has made a complete U-turn from castigating Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi to becoming his supporter.

Kuria, who had in the past called out Wamatangi and accused him of sabotaging his mandate, has told off critics over the governor’s brainchild project of chicken rearing.

Speaking on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, CS Kuria threw his weight under Wamatangi arguing that the chicken-rearing project is key to promoting the county’s agricultural sector.

“I have heard a lot of noise regarding the Kiambu County Government giving out those chicks. I would like to tell the county to continue,” Kuria stated.

“Let them even find cows and give them out,” he added.

Why he defended Wamatangi’s programme

According to CS Kuria, the programme which was launched by Governor Wamatangi after ascending to office is key to addressing the issue of unemployment in the country.

The Public Service Cabinet Secretary pointed out that the Agricultural sector has the potential of breaking the gap of unemployment in the country which is among the key agendas of President William Ruto’s administration.

Kuria further detailed that Governor Wamatangi’s programme is critical to ensuring the country is food secure.

“If we sought out agriculture, we will not only sought out jobs, food and most important the cost of living. So I really want us to reduce toxic politics,” Kuria stated.

“Anyone who is opposed to this programme should bring what they think works,” Kuria retorted.

Their past fallout

On April 4, 2024, Kuria declared that he was not interested in vying for Kiambu gubernatorial seat. The CS made the sentiments to hit out at Governor Wamatangi over succession politics.

Kuria took a swipe at Governor Kimani Wamatangi, over what he termed as attempts to block development projects he initiates for the county.

“Tell him to stop opposing everything I bring in Kiambu because he believes I want that seat. I do not want the governor’s seat… when he stops me, he does not wrong me but the people of Kiambu,” Kuria stated.

Kuria, who was speaking in Lari when he attended the burial of Mama Jane Njeri Ng’ang’a, 90, said Wamatangi frustrated efforts to construct an industrial park and now the National Youth Service mashinani programme.

He however pleaded with the leaders from the region to champion unity for the sake of development.

“As a minister from Kiambu, I must say we should respect each other. Those who were previously elected should respect those who are now on various seats. Ward Reps should respect their MPs and also, the governor should respect MPs,” he remarked.