Tharaka Nithi Governor Samuel Ragwa has denied endorsing Tharaka businessman Francis Kiambi for senator. Speaking on Wednesday on Meru FM, he said he was not supporting the trader or his political adviser Ichenga Mugao against the incumbent Kithure Kindiki.
Ragwa said rumour has it he is rooting for Kiambi because Kindiki does not support his re-election bid. “That is not true because they are Kenyans and it is their right to contest for any seat they want in the county or country,” the governor said.
The county boss said Kiambi is a well-known businessman who can stand on his own. “He has a war chest and is very prominent and is quickly gaining ground, as residents have already began supporting his bid. But let me say I am not the one sponsoring him. He has money as he is a wealthy man and can stand on his own,” Ragwa said.
The governor spoke after being questioned by the Senate Public Accounts Committee on why Sh111 million meant for health was deposited in his personal account.
The relationship between Ragwa and Kindiki has deteriorated after Kindiki said he will support Chuka Igambang'ombe MP Muthoni Njuki’s governor bid next year. Kiambi is deemed to be Ragwa’s project to cut Kindiki down to size so the senator can support his bid for governor.
Sources familiar with the political dynamics told the Star the county boss could be preparing Kiambi to be his running mate next year. Current Deputy Governor Mate Murithi is considered "docile" and might not help the governor much in getting votes in Tharaka constituency.
Tharaka Nithi has three constituencies: Chuka Igambang’ombe with 57,231 voters, Maara, 50,870, and Tharaka, 47,368.
Already, Kindiki has declared his interest to be run for president in the 2022 general election.