Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika/ SCREENGRABNakuru Governor Susan Kihika has defended her recent absence from public duties while hitting out at those who have been criticising her while on maternity leave in the United States of America (USA).
Speaking during a media interview at Kogi’s Corner on Thursday, she accused the group of playing politics with the matter, saying her whereabouts were never secret.
She maintained that she had nothing to hide and that those demanding explanations for her absence were engaging in baseless politics.
"I saw them asking where I went, but that was just politics because everyone knew where I was since. I wrote official letters indicating my whereabouts. I did not hide my whereabouts. I believe in being transparent as I was elected as Governor by the voters, and I saw the need to inform the people so that they were not left in the dark about my absence," she stated.
She, however, reiterated that her absence did not paralyse operations and that her team was in place to ensure continuity in delivering services to residents in Nakuru County.
"Even when I left, county operations were still ongoing, nothing was paralysed. I did not take the roads or boreholes with me, therefore, everything was going on well," Kihika said.
The Governor justified the break and termed it necessary, as a woman, adding that it is part of their responsibility to bear children.
She acknowledged that she was aware of some of the ongoing challenges on stalled projects, including impassable roads caused by floods and funding constraints in the medical institutions.
She, however, noted that plans were underway to address the underlying issues.
Kihika’s absence had sparked public debate, with some leaders and residents questioning her prolonged stay abroad and its impact on county leadership.
She landed back in the country days ago after spending a couple of months in the US, with her deputy and top aide confirming her return.
