Former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu has officially announced her bid to reclaim the county’s top seat in the 2027 elections. Ngilu, who served as governor from 2018 to 2022, made the declaration while addressing mourners at the burial of former teacher Felix Mutio in Ivovoa village, Kitui Central sub-county.
Ngilu emphasized her commitment to serving the people of Kitui and expressed her readiness to resume leadership if re-elected. She stated that her decision was driven by overwhelming calls from residents urging her to seek a comeback.
“If it is a matter of my coming back to continue where I left off, I am ready to take the challenge. I am able to continue serving Kitui people. It is important for the people of Kitui to be served well,” Ngilu said.
Her declaration was met with enthusiastic approval from mourners, signifying public support for her candidacy. She assured residents of her unwavering dedication, stating that she would continue her open-door policy to ensure effective service delivery.
Ngilu took the opportunity to critique current officeholders who she claimed had distanced themselves from the electorate after assuming power. She criticized officials who limit accessibility to their offices and move around in fleets of cars, emphasizing that elected leaders should remain approachable.
“The Constitution of Kenya 2010 was passed so that citizens could access services and reach their leaders. No one has the right to proclaim an office as his own; it belongs to the people of Kitui,” she asserted.
Ngilu further underscored the need for leaders to treat all citizens with dignity, regardless of their social or economic status. She reiterated her pledge to maintain a leadership style that prioritizes the needs of Kitui residents, ensuring that no one is left behind.
In the 2022 gubernatorial elections, Ngilu withdrew her candidature in favor of Julius Malombe, a move that facilitated his victory. However, with Malombe’s term set to conclude in 2027, she is now keen on making a political comeback.
Her re-election bid sets the stage for a highly competitive gubernatorial race in Kitui, with residents eagerly anticipating the political dynamics that will unfold as the election approaches.
