Former Murang’a Senator Kembi Gitura has walked away from the helm of Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH), less than a year after taking up the post.
Gitura, who was appointed chair of the hospital’s board in December 2024, announced his resignation on Tuesday, framing it as a matter of principle rather than performance. He argued that his presence at the state-run facility created the wrong political impression, especially given his firm opposition to President William Ruto’s administration.
“When I accepted this role, many assumed I had aligned myself with UDA. That was never the case, but optics matter. People still linked me to the government,” Gitura said.
He admitted that holding the position constrained his ability to openly criticise government policies, particularly on governance and corruption. “I do not support UDA policies on virtually all fronts. I don’t want to mislead anyone by my actions, words, or deeds. In 2027, every vote will count, and my political stand must be crystal clear,” he declared.
While commending KUTRRH for transforming access to specialised healthcare and reducing the need for Kenyans to seek treatment abroad, Gitura made it clear that his heart remained in politics, not administration.
“I may have been doing a good job at the hospital, but politics defines who I am. I have chosen to step aside because of the personal conflicts I’ve mentioned. I am, above all, a politician,” he said.
His resignation reopens questions about the delicate balance between public service and political identity and signals that Gitura is ready to fully re-enter the political arena ahead of 2027.
