Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu has explained why she decided not to run for re-election in the August 9, general elections.
Ngilu who was speaking at the launch of Digital Mission for Ushanga Kenya stated that her decision not to run for re-election was influenced by her desire to help empower other women across the country, particularly Martha Karua, Raila Odinga’s running mate.
The governor explained that her current focus is on national politics, where she will be on the frontlines advocating for better women’s empowerment.
“I stepped down because I want to support women on a national level,” Ngilu stated.
The Narc party leader did not reveal the nature of her involvement in national politics, noting that she is still consulting widely to make the right political moves.
“Remember I have been in the leadership position for over 30 years, it is now time to move forward and give young women a chance and also be part and parcel of the building of their capacity.
“This cannot just be announced that I’m exiting, you have to call people and prepare and they bless me and they tell me to go on. So I can’t make a decision like this alone,” Ngilu added.
During the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya campaign tour on the region on June 15, Azimio flagbearer Raila Odinga announced the news saying that Ms. Ngilu will not run for re-election and that he needed her in national politics.
Ms. Ngilu resigned her re-election bid in support of Julius Malombe.
The governor has been a staunch supporter of Odinga, and he is credited with reuniting Wiper party stalwarts in Azimio and coordinating the Azimo la Umoja women’s wing.
