Kagwe said the habit of electing new leaders every electoral cycle had resulted in a trail of incomplete or abandoned projects, as incoming leaders often shelved initiatives started by their predecessors, regardless of their merit.
This pattern, he noted, had slowed progress, distorted development planning, and denied citizens the full benefits of public investment.
He emphasised that nurturing leadership over time would enable the emergence of battle-tested and accountable leaders who are capable of driving the region’s agenda with experience, vision and consistency.
Such leaders, he added, would be better positioned to anchor political stability, a critical ingredient for economic planning, investment and long-term growth.
“Development requires predictability, strategic thinking and continuity,” Kagwe said.
“When leadership changes too frequently and policies shift every election cycle, projects stall, resources are wasted, and the people remain deprived of the progress they deserve.”
The CS encouraged residents to assess soberly the implications of either being in government or in the opposition, stressing that each path carries consequences that shape the region’s future.
Making that choice rationally and strategically, he said, would determine central Kenya’s development trajectory for years to come.
Kagwe further argued that allowing leadership to grow, mature and be tested over time would cultivate a value-driven political culture grounded in merit and accountability.
This, he said, would elevate leaders who not only understand the region’s needs but are also equipped to implement long-term solutions without the constant disruptions caused by political turnover.
“With a stable leadership foundation, the region can plan effectively, attract investment and complete transformative projects,” he said.
“This is how we build a prosperous future for our people.”
The CS spoke at Ihwagi Secondary School, where he flagged off two milk coolers destined for Mia Mia Dairy Cooperative Society and Karatina University, part of government efforts to strengthen the dairy value chain in Nyeri and surrounding areas.
He was accompanied by a team of leaders from the region, including Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga, Mathira MP Eric Wa-Mumbi, Kieni MP Anthony Njoroge Wainaina and Othaya MP Michael Wambugu Wainaina.
The leaders welcomed the CS’s call for political maturity, noting that development thrives in environments where policy continuity and stability are prioritised.
They also lauded the government’s continued investment in agriculture, saying the dairy equipment would boost farmers’ earnings and enhance food security.
Kagwe reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting economic growth and urged residents to participate actively in shaping a stable and development-oriented political culture.
