Former Murang’a Senator Kembi Gitura has resigned as Chairman of the Board at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), just eight months after his appointment.
In a resignation statement issued Tuesday, Gitura explained that his decision was driven by political conviction, saying he did not want to send mixed political signals to Kenyans given his well-known opposition to President William Ruto’s administration.
Political Convictions Over Public Office
Gitura, who was gazetted as KUTRRH chair on December 20, 2024, noted that holding the position compromised his ability to freely criticize the government’s policies, especially on governance and corruption.
“When I accepted this role, many of my friends and political supporters questioned whether I had shifted my allegiance to UDA. I explained that this was not a political appointment, but optics matter. People still linked me to the government,” Gitura said.
He added that he does not support the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) government or its policies, stressing that he wanted his political stance to remain clear ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“I do not support UDA government policies on virtually all fronts. I do not want to mislead anyone by my actions, words, or deeds. In 2027, every vote will count, and I want my political stand to be clear,” he stated.
Commends KUTRRH but Chooses Politics
Despite resigning, Gitura commended KUTRRH for its achievements, saying the hospital had played a key role in reducing the number of Kenyans seeking specialized treatment abroad.
He acknowledged that his role at the institution had been impactful, but maintained that politics defined his identity.
“True, I may be doing a good job at helping make positive change at the hospital, but I am a politician,” he remarked.
Gitura’s Public Service Record
Kembi Gitura has a long record of public service:
- Murang’a Senator (2013–2017): Served as the county’s first senator under the Jubilee Party.
- Deputy Speaker, Eleventh Parliament (2013–2017): Held one of the most senior positions in the Senate.
- 2017 Murang’a Gubernatorial Race: Contested but was unsuccessful.
- KEMSA Board Chair (2020–2021): Oversaw the authority during the COVID-19 pandemic before the board was dissolved by President Uhuru Kenyatta.
- Communication Authority of Kenya Chair (2021–2024): Appointed by Uhuru Kenyatta for a three-year term.
- KUTRRH Board Chair (Dec 2024–Aug 2025): Resigned citing political conflict of interest.
Political Implications
Gitura’s resignation signals a clear attempt to distance himself from the UDA administration ahead of the 2027 elections. His move could reposition him politically in Murang’a County and nationally, as he seeks to align with opposition voices against President Ruto’s government.