Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones has confirmed that Governor Susan Kihika is back in the country after being away for several months.
While addressing residents in Nakuru County on Thursday, April 24, Kones assured the public that the governor is in good health.
He made the announcement alongside Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who was inspecting progress on the Dundori ESP Market construction project.
Kones conveyed the governor’s greetings to locals and mentioned that she plans to visit the area soon.
“I want to bring the greetings of Governor Susan Kihika. Have you received them? She is doing well and has come back. She has said she will come and visit soon,” he announced.
Governor Kihika has been away for several months on maternity leave, spending recent weeks in the United States (US).
Back in January, she stated that she had temporarily stepped back from official duties and confirmed that Deputy Governor David Kones was handling county affairs during her absence.
“Following numerous calls that I have received regarding my absence, as the elected Governor of Nakuru County, I want to, first of all, assure the people of Nakuru that I am well and currently on maternity leave,” she stated.
“While thanking the people of Nakuru for their concern, I wholeheartedly assure them that service delivery in our Great County is proceeding as envisaged under the able guidance of the team led by the Deputy Governor, H.E. David Kones. I have no doubts whatsoever in H.E. Kones leading them in my absence.”
Earlier this month, photos emerged of Kihika’s twins months after giving birth while on maternity leave in the US. She was seen cradling the twins alongside her husband, Sam Mburu.
The news of the birth first came to light last month, when nominated Senator Veronica Maina shared it during a press briefing. Joined by other women leaders, she urged Kenyans to steer clear of online bullying and applauded Kihika for embracing motherhood.
“As women leaders of Kenya, we stand here today in solidarity with Governor Susan Kihika, a dedicated public servant and a mother who has recently welcomed twins into the world. We congratulate her on the birth of her children. They are a blessing from God, and we give thanks,” she stated.
Governor Kihika has been a hot topic in Nakuru County in recent months due to her extended maternity leave.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, March 26, Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja criticised the governor for what she claimed was a year-long absence, arguing that it had stalled key projects and left important issues unresolved.
Karanja also claimed that the governor failed to properly inform Nakuru residents about her pregnancy and upcoming leave before stepping away from her duties.
