Former Vocal Minister, Governor Quits Politics After Thirty Years
Kiraitu Murungi, a former governor of Meru, has declared his retirement from active politics and stated that he will now focus his efforts on fostering pleasure at work.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 27, Dr. Kiraitu discussed his three-decade political career after being awarded an honorary doctorate by Laikipia University for his outstanding leadership and public service.
“I have learnt my lessons,” he stated, “and after more than 30 years in active politics, it is time to call it quits.”
Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has announced his retirement from active politics, saying he will now dedicate his time to promoting happiness in workplaces and coaching fellow politicians on life beyond public office. pic.twitter.com/9i0qnroZ4J
— TheStarKenya (@TheStarKenya) January 27, 2026
When Kiraitu was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1992, his political career officially began.
Following his tenure as a cabinet member under President Mwai Kibaki, he was elected to the Meru Senate seat in 2013 then the governorship in 2017.
But in the 2022 elections, Kawira Mwangaza, the impeached governor, defeated him.
President William Ruto appointed him in 2023 to serve as Chairman of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOCK) Board of Directors for a three-year term starting in April 2023.
During the prize event, Kiraitu told friends and family that he almost fell into depression after losing the 2022 election.
“I had known nothing else for over 30 years, and I never want to go back to that place,” he said.
His recent foray into happiness advocacy is the result of a rigorous nine-month training and counseling program.
Now, Kiraitu wants to use these experiences to teach other politicians about life outside of politics and to spread happiness.
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He referred to his strategy as “low volume politics,” emphasizing advisory positions above public office.
Earlier on, there had been speculation that Kiraitu might make a political comeback in the lead-up to the 2027 elections, with some allies suggesting a run for the Senate.
However, he indicated that he is now paving the way for younger leaders eager to take up elective positions.
His wife, Priscillah Murungi, welcomed the decision, saying it was time for him to settle into new pursuits and focus on other aspects of life.
Former Vocal Minister, Governor Quits Politics After Thirty Years
