Nakuru Governor Under Fire Days After Returning to Kenya as a Case is Filed Against Her

Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika is facing fresh legal troubles following a petition challenging her eligibility to hold public office. The case, filed by Peter Kuria Mwaniki, alleges that Kihika holds dual citizenship—both Kenyan and American—contrary to Article 78(2) of the Constitution.

Mwaniki argues that Kihika’s past role as an Assistant District Attorney in Texas, a job exclusively reserved for U.S. citizens, proves she holds American citizenship. He claims no record exists to show she renounced it before contesting in the 2022 General Election.

The petitioner wants the High Court to declare Kihika unfit for public office and to nullify her election as governor. He also seeks an order declaring the Nakuru gubernatorial seat vacant and for Deputy Governor David Kones to be sworn in.

In the petition, Mwaniki states that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) failed in its duty to vet her eligibility, calling it a breach of public trust. He accuses the IEBC of neglecting its constitutional mandate, which he says undermines the credibility of electoral processes.

He further invokes Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity, insisting that Kihika’s silence on the dual citizenship matter is a serious concern. Her absence from office for several months has already triggered public uproar.

Residents recently protested her prolonged stay in the U.S., calling for accountability. This controversy deepens amid growing criticism of her administration, especially over alleged negligence in Nakuru’s healthcare sector.

The case is pending in court, awaiting judicial review.

SOURCE