MCAs endorse Kiraitu to run against Munya for governor in 2017 elections

A section of MCAs have supported Senator Kiraitu Murungi's bid to run against Meru Governor Peter Munya in the 2017 General Election.

Speaking during the burial of Kiraitu's ally Gerald Muguna at Kanyakine, the MCAs said they were frustrated at the lack of tangible development in the county, adding the senator should 'save' residents by running for governor.

They also pledged their support for the Jubilee Party, in whose formation Kiraitu is playing an integral role.

Igoji East MCA John Kireria accused the county government of not paying contractors Sh1.4 billion in outstanding debts.

"As the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, I thank Kiraitu and Woman Rep Florence Kajuju for the work they are doing for the county. We thank President Uhuru Kenyatta's government for releasing funds to the county. But while we are seeing roads being constructed in Embu, nothing is being done (in Meru)," Kireria said.

Alhaji Mwendia (Nominated) said they were frustrated by Munya's administration, noting they were ready to support Kiraitu to run for the governor's position.

"We used resources to market Munya after the court ruled that he was legally elected as governor. Now the county government cannot account for funds. No work is being done from the 2015/2016 budget in provision of water, roads and other projects," Mr Mwendia said.

Mwendia further said the MCAs will not approve Munya's proposal to construct 150 kilometres of road using the Probase technology.

He wondered why the governor wants to use Sh50 million per kilometre in the project, while the pilot Kianjai-Miathene road cost Sh30 million per kilometre.

Mwendia told the senator he must heed the call from residents who want him to be governor.

"Senator, if Meru residents call you, you must heed their call, otherwise God will not forgive you! Don't betray Meru," Mwendia told Kiraitu, who sat pensively in the front pew.

Meru Deputy Speaker Gideon Kimathi praised Kiraitu for development projects in the county and said they will not approve the 150km proposal before important questions are answered.

"For instance, why has the cost gone from sh30 million to Sh50 million?" Kimathi posed.

He said they are ready to join the Jubilee Party once its formation is completed.

Kiraitu told the mourners he is opposed to the propaganda and insults being hurled in the county.

"Those with eyes have seen what I have done (as MP and as senator). I will go all over Meru to listen to residents, as I am still doing my research," Kiraitu said, regarding the pressure being exerted on him to run against Munya.