A Kenyan citizen, Evans Kimori, has written to former U.S. President Donald Trump requesting the deportation of Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika. Kimori’s petition highlights concerns over governance and service delivery in Nakuru County, citing the governor’s extended absence as the cause of a leadership crisis.
Claims of Prolonged Absence and Governance Issues
In his letter, Kimori alleges that Governor Kihika has been in the United States for nearly five months, reportedly seeking maternity and newborn care. While Kenyan labor laws provide for up to 90 days of maternity leave, her extended absence has reportedly disrupted the delivery of essential services in Nakuru County.
“Governor Kihika’s continued absence has created a leadership vacuum that has negatively impacted healthcare, governance, and other public services in the county,” Kimori stated in the letter.
Healthcare Concerns and War Memorial Hospital Closure
Kimori also criticized Kihika for seeking medical care abroad while Nakuru residents struggle to access healthcare services. He pointed to the controversial closure of War Memorial Hospital, a critical healthcare facility that had served Nakuru residents since 1906.
“The closure of War Memorial Hospital under Kihika’s administration, despite numerous court orders mandating its reopening, has left thousands of residents without vital healthcare services. This has especially affected mothers, children, and patients with chronic illnesses,” Kimori added.
Calls for Accountability
The petitioner urged Trump to intervene by facilitating Kihika’s return to Kenya so that she can fulfill her responsibilities as governor. Kimori argued that her absence undermines the trust placed in her by Nakuru voters and exacerbates the county’s declining services.
“The people of Nakuru deserve accountable leadership. Her continued stay in the U.S., while she earns a substantial salary, is a betrayal of the democratic mandate given to her,” Kimori asserted.
Ongoing Legal Challenges for Kihika
In addition to concerns over her absence, Governor Kihika faces legal battles in Nakuru County. On February 18, the Environment and Land Court ordered her to serve a six-month jail term or pay a Ksh2 million fine for contempt of court regarding unlawful waste disposal into Lake Nakuru.
Furthermore, Nakuru residents recently filed a petition with the county assembly, demanding an investigation into the governor’s extended absence. The petitioners have given the county assembly two weeks to address the matter and ensure accountability.
Public Outcry and Speculation
Governor Kihika’s absence has sparked widespread speculation, fueled by recent photos shared by Kenya Shipyards Limited Board Member Millicent Omanga during a visit to the U.S. Nakuru residents have expressed frustration over the lack of clarity surrounding their governor’s whereabouts and the impact on critical services in the county.
