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Murang’a Governor Mwangi wa Iria has said he will not contest for the chairmanship of the Council of Governors in the elections set for next week.

Wa Iria said he wants to take a break from the council’s tasks and focus on strategizing for his 2022 presidential bid.

“I know people were expecting me to vie for this seat but I don’t have such intentions,” said Mwangi wa Iria

Addressing the media at his office, the COG Vice Chairman said he is contented to have served as the deputy for two terms.

“My objective and ambition is bigger and goes beyond being the head of the council and that is what am going to pursue” he said.

“This position requires a lot of commitment and I don’t think I will be able to serve in that capacity while at the same time plan for the next election,” he added.

He said several colleagues have approached him over the same but he declined the request for personal reasons.

Further, he said his decision will avoid conflict with the other governors as he goes out to hunt for votes.

“I want to have freedom of movement in every part of country as a presidential aspirant but not as the chairman of council of governors,” he said.

He proposed that whoever will take the position should not be having an interest in vying for a higher political seat as he or she might not be able to deliver appropriately.

Tana River Governor Dhadho Godhana is among those who have declared their candidacy for the COG Chair.

Additional reporting by Njange Maina