Politician Maina Njenga has expressed his desire to take the leadership mantle from retired President Uhuru Kenyatta as the leader of the Central Kenya region.

Njenga, who lost the Laikipia senatorial seat in the 2022 elections, said Kikuyu traditions demand that the leadership stuff, popularly known as ‘muthigi’, be handed over when a leader exits from the position, which he maintained has not yet happened.

Insisting that he is qualified to step into Uhuru’s shoes in that role, the politician accused people in certain circles of engaging in a smear campaign to portray him in a bad light.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is largely regarded as the de facto kingpin of the Kikuyu nation, and Njenga’s assertion is likely to ruffle some feathers.

Speaking during a Sunday service at the AIPCA Chieko Church in Mwiki, Kasarani Nairobi said he has embarked on an initiative to unite the Mount Kenya communities and Kenya at large.

Njenga’s request

Njenga, who was once the leader of an outlawed Kikuyu religious sect, asked people not to judge him by his past deeds but to look at his present status.

“Don’t judge me by the past; everybody has a history. Do not bring me this nonsense; if you are elected to Parliament today, we shall call you an honourable Member of Parliament and not refer to you by your past titles,” said Njenga.

He added: “When it comes to church issues, I am a bishop, and in politics, I am a party leader. I am in the same league with other national leaders like Raila (Odinga), Kalonzo (Musyoka), and President (William) Ruto.”

He at the same time told Kenyans to support President Ruto and not complain over the rising cost of living, while pinpointing the Mountain Region, which unanimously voted for the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Njenga said he was also on a mission to redeem the image of men in the Central region who have lost the leadership role in their families.

“I am reaching out to the church to help in ensuring that men take up their traditional leadership roles at their homes,” he said.