Former Kirinyaga Woman Representative Wangui Ngirici has defended women leadership in the county, dismissing claims that Kirinyaga should never again elect a woman governor and cautioning residents against having leaders imposed on them by political elites.

Speaking during her Ziara Mashinani tours on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in Murinduko, Thiba, and Nyangati wards in Mwea Constituency, Ngirici said leadership should be determined by competence, vision, and service delivery rather than gender.

She said the people of Kirinyaga are politically mature and informed enough to choose leaders based on competence and service delivery rather than gender stereotypes.

“The issue of gender should never be used to discriminate against anyone seeking leadership. Both men and women have equal rights to seek elective positions and face the people,” she said.

Need for equality ahead of 2027 polls

Ngirici insisted that women in politics deserve equal respect and opportunities just like their male counterparts, warning against attempts to intimidate or sideline female aspirants ahead of the 2027 succession politics.

“Leadership is not about whether one is a man or a woman. It is about qualities, vision, courage and the ability to transform people’s lives,” she added.

In remarks that appeared to target emerging political alliances in Kirinyaga, Ngirici also warned residents against leaders being “marketed” to them by political parties and influential political figures.

Without mentioning names, her sentiments appeared directed at recent political moves by Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, who publicly endorsed Gachoki Gitari for the county’s top seat, as well as Kamau Murango, who has recently intensified activities linked to the Democracy for the Citizens Party.

“Leaders who want to serve Kirinyaga people should come directly to the wananchi and present their agenda instead of waiting to be carried by parties or introduced by outsiders,” Ngirici said.

Impact of political sponsorship

She argued that leaders depending on political sponsorship instead of public trust lack genuine intentions for the people.

“Any leader who wants votes must earn them from the people. Kirinyaga residents are intelligent and they cannot accept to be imposed on a leader,” she stated.

Ngirici further warned external political forces against interfering with Kirinyaga politics, saying the county’s voters are capable of making independent decisions without manipulation.

“Outside leaders should stop interfering with Kirinyaga’s political affairs. Our people know what they want, and they understand leadership. Leadership is not about friendship or political games. It is about service, development, and the qualities of an individual,” Ngirici said.