MP’s name mix-up sparks laughter at church service

Igembe Central MP Dan Kiili on Sunday briefly sparked laughter after mixing up the names of political leaders in his speech. 

He spoke during a Church Service at St. Mary’s AIPCA, Kathelwa, Meru. The Legislator’s verbal stumble, though brief, became a notable moment in the gathering.

The service attracted widespread attention, given the presence of high-profile officials in the country.

“Wapi two term ya Honourable RailaUhuruOdinga,” Kiili said, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Realising the slip, he promptly corrected himself. 

“Wapi two term ya Baba wetu Ruto, wapi two term ya Kindiki, nionesheni two term yao,” he added, regaining the crowd’s attention before proceeding with his remarks.

As a newcomer in national politics, Kiili continues to balance grassroots expectations with legislative duties in Nairobi, positioning himself as a voice for farmers and local development.

He describes himself as a servant leader committed to transforming his constituency through teamwork and accountability. 

Kiili has also pledged to support education and youth empowerment projects.

He has also recently called for peace and security in the region following incidents of violence that have disrupted farming and trade.

The legislator says his focus is on improving livelihoods through sustainable agricultural development.

He has urged the government to expand markets for the crop and provide farmers with modern farming methods and research support.

Kiili has been vocal on issues affecting the miraa industry, which forms the economic backbone of Igembe Central. 

Elected in the 2022 general election, Kiili defeated incumbent Cyprian Kiringo. 

The Igembe Central MP has emerged as one of Meru County’s most vocal legislators, using his first term in Parliament to push for agricultural reforms and better markets for miraa farmers.

On Sunday, during the same event, Ruto announced plans to elevate Meru to city status and construct a State Lodge in the region by December this year. 

Speaking during the Church Service at St Mary’s AIPCA Church, Kathelwa, Meru, the President said the government had already initiated discussions to make Meru Kenya’s next city after Eldoret, which was recently conferred city status.

"I have told my people to have a State Lodge ready for me by December, where I will come and we will discuss issues of this region of Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo and the rest," he added.

The Head of State said Meru’s growing economy and strategic location make it a suitable candidate for elevation, adding that the new status will open doors for greater development and investment opportunities in the region.

Ruto also disclosed plans to build a State Lodge in Meru, saying it would facilitate government engagements in the Eastern region.

“We have five cities in Kenya, and the last one recently made a city was Eldoret. The one that follows is Meru, Meru City, and because Meru will be a city, I’m also planning to construct a State Lodge in Meru. Some leaders have asked me to come here for three days. Do you want me to come and sleep in a hotel for that long? I should look for a house to sleep here,” the President said.