Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja has strongly refuted claims that she is unwell or hospitalized, dismissing the reports as “fake news” allegedly spread by individuals allied to the county government.
In a statement issued from London, where she is currently on vacation, the Senator assured Nakuru residents that she is in good health and fully committed to her oversight duties.
“As you are aware, the Senate is on a short recess from April 18th to May 5th. I’ve taken this time for a brief vacation in London. I am not sick, not hospitalized, and I thank God for good health,” said Karanja.
“These lies are being peddled by paid bloggers and influencers, some funded with public resources meant for development.”
Her remarks come in response to Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika’s interview on a vernacular radio station, where she claimed the Senator was admitted to a cancer facility in London.
Despite political tensions between the two, Kihika offered what seemed like a goodwill message, saying, “I want to wish her a quick recovery.”
However, Karanja dismissed the message, accusing her rivals of exploiting illness rumours for political gain.
“Wishing someone terminal illness is not only cruel, it’s inhumane,” she said. “I will not be intimidated in executing my constitutional duties.”
The two leaders have been at odds in recent months. In March, Karanja criticized Kihika for failing to properly communicate her maternity leave and accused her administration of stalling critical services, including the court-ordered reopening of War Memorial Hospital.
Kihika responded by defending her decision, asserting that motherhood should not disqualify one from leadership.
With 2027 political undertones simmering, the clash between the Senator and the Governor appears far from over.
