Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has announced his retirement from active politics, saying he will now dedicate his time to promoting happiness in workplaces and coaching fellow politicians on life beyond public office.
The announcement came Tuesday morning during a ceremony at Laikipia University, where he received an honorary doctorate in recognition of his distinguished public service and leadership.
Speaking to close friends and family during the ceremony, Kiraitu said that after more than three decades in public service, it was time to step aside.
“I have learnt my lessons,” he remarked, reflecting on a career that began in 1992 when he was first elected to Parliament.
He served as an MP and held cabinet positions under the late President Mwai Kibaki before being elected Meru Senator in 2013.
He went on to win the gubernatorial seat in 2017, a position he held until his defeat in 2022 by Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
The former governor disclosed that the loss in 2022 nearly led him to depression.
“Initially, after losing the elections, I was in shock, disbelief, and I actually got very sad. I also got depressed after some time, and because people were around me crying, they had also lost, so I decided to take a break from all that,” he said.
Having devoted his life entirely to politics, Kiraitu admitted it was a difficult period, describing it as “a place I would not want to go back to.”
His journey to recovery, he said, was guided by nine months of counselling and structured classes focused on personal development and happiness.
“This experience gave me a new perspective on life,” he said.
“Now, I want to share that perspective with others and help people find joy in their professional and personal lives.”
Kiraitu revealed that his future engagement in politics will take the form of what he calls “low-volume politics,” offering advisory support rather than seeking elective office.
His wife, Priscillah Murungi, welcomed the announcement, noting that it was time for him to focus on other pursuits and enjoy a more balanced life outside the rigours of politics.
Kiraitu’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable career in Kenyan politics, spanning roles in Parliament, the cabinet, and county leadership, and now signals the start of a new chapter dedicated to personal development, happiness advocacy, and mentorship for future leaders.