Kiraitu Murungi Steps Away from Active Politics to Focus on Workplace Happiness
Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has officially announced his retirement from active politics, marking the end of a long and influential political career that has spanned more than three decades.
Going forward, Kiraitu says he wants to dedicate his time and energy to promoting happiness, mental well-being, and positive work culture, especially among leaders and professionals.
Kiraitu made the announcement on Tuesday, January 27, while speaking at Laikipia University, where he received an honorary doctorate in recognition of his long service to the country and his contribution to leadership and governance.
Addressing guests at the ceremony, he took time to reflect on his political journey, describing it as rewarding but also deeply demanding.
“I have learnt my lessons along the way,” Kiraitu said. “After more than 30 years in active politics, I feel it is the right time to step back and move on to a new chapter of life.”
His political career began in 1992 when he was first elected to Parliament. Over the years, Kiraitu rose to become one of the most prominent figures in Kenyan politics.
He served as a Cabinet minister during President Mwai Kibaki’s administration, playing key roles in government at a time of major reforms. In 2013, he was elected as the Senator for Meru County and later went on to become the county’s governor in 2017.
However, his long political run faced a major setback in the 2022 general election, when he lost the Meru governorship to Kawira Mwangaza.
Speaking candidly during the award ceremony, Kiraitu revealed that the defeat took a heavy emotional toll on him. He admitted that losing the election almost pushed him into depression, as politics had been his life for over 30 years.
“For three decades, politics was all I knew,” he said. “The loss was painful, and I never want to find myself in that dark place again.”
Despite stepping away from elective politics, Kiraitu remains active in public service. In 2023, President William Ruto appointed him as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOCK). The appointment runs for a three-year term starting from April 2023.
Kiraitu explained that his new focus on happiness advocacy was inspired by a nine-month period of intensive counselling and personal training following the 2022 elections.
Through this process, he says he gained valuable lessons about life, mental health, and the importance of finding purpose beyond power and political office.
He now hopes to use his experience to mentor and coach fellow politicians, particularly those struggling to adjust to life after losing elections or leaving public office.
Kiraitu described his new path as “low volume politics,” where he will offer guidance and advice without actively seeking political positions.
In the past, there had been speculation that he might attempt a political comeback ahead of the 2027 elections, with some of his allies hinting at a possible Senate bid.
However, Kiraitu has firmly dismissed those claims, saying he wants to create space for younger leaders who are eager and ready to serve in elective roles.
His wife, Priscillah Murungi, also expressed support for his decision, noting that it was the right time for him to explore new interests and focus on other meaningful aspects of life beyond politics.
With this move, Kiraitu Murungi closes a major chapter in Kenyan politics and opens a new one centered on personal growth, mentorship, and the pursuit of happiness.
Join Tutam Official WhatsApp Channel to stay updated on time
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
