Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has clarified that she is on maternity leave following public outcry over her three-month absence from administrative duties.
The governor’s prolonged absence sparked a wave of speculation among Nakuru residents, many of whom took to social media questioning how the county was being managed remotely. The discussions escalated after a poster titled ‘Missing Person’ circulated widely on social media platforms in the past 48 hours.
The poster humorously stated:
“Missing Person; Governor Susan Kihika; 51 years old; last seen three months ago boarding a plane to the USA. She has not returned to Kenya since.”
It also urged anyone who had seen her to remind her that the USA was not Nakuru County or to contact the county government.
The poster triggered mixed reactions, with some Kenyans claiming Kihika had relocated to the USA, while others joked that she might have been abducted.
Responding to the concerns, Kihika, through a statement issued by her Chief of Staff, Peter Ketyenya, confirmed that she is on maternity leave.
“Following numerous calls regarding my absence, I want to assure the people of Nakuru that I am well and currently on maternity leave,” read the statement.
Kihika thanked residents for their concerns and reassured them that county operations were running smoothly under the leadership of Deputy Governor David Kones.
“I wholeheartedly assure them that service delivery in our great county is proceeding as planned under the able guidance of the team led by Deputy Governor David Kones,” she stated.
She expressed full confidence in Kones, adding that he was well-equipped to lead the county in her absence.
The governor also announced her intention to resume official duties at the end of her maternity leave, set to conclude in the coming weeks.
Kihika’s absence first drew attention during the festive season in 2024.
