Diana Muthini
In Kenya’s modern political landscape, few figures have captured attention, admiration, and debate as much as Susan Wakarura Kihika, the governor of Nakuru County. Known for her resilience, strategic acumen, and assertive leadership, Kihika has steadily carved a path through a historically male-dominated arena, breaking barriers and redefining expectations for women in leadership. Her story reflects not only personal ambition but also the broader dynamics of Kenyan politics — including party realignments, devolution, and gender representation.
Early Life and Education
Susan Kihika was born on December 11, 1974, into a politically influential family in Nakuru County. Her father, the late Dixon Kihika Kimani, was a seasoned politician who served as a Member of Parliament in multiple constituencies. Growing up in a family deeply embedded in public service gave Kihika early exposure to politics, governance, and the workings of leadership at both local and national levels.
She attended Busara Forest View Academy and later Bishop Gatimu Ngandu Girls High School, where she excelled academically. Driven by ambition, she pursued higher education in the United States, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of North Texas and a Juris Doctor (JD) from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. She was admitted to the Texas Bar and built a career as a lawyer, specializing in criminal defense and immigration law, and even establishing her own legal firm. Her experiences abroad equipped her with a global perspective on governance, law, and human rights, which would later influence her political approach in Kenya.
Entry into Kenyan Politics
After nearly two decades abroad, Kihika returned to Kenya in 2012, determined to enter public service. Her first political bid was for the Bahati Constituency parliamentary seat in the 2013 elections. Despite a strong campaign, she was defeated. Undeterred, she shifted focus to county politics, where she could leverage her organizational skills and leadership abilities more effectively.
In 2013, Kihika made history by becoming the first Speaker of the Nakuru County Assembly, a position she held until 2017. Her tenure was notable for introducing transparency and accountability mechanisms in the newly devolved county assembly and for asserting the authority of the legislature in county governance. She also served as Vice Chair of the County Assemblies Forum, a national platform that connects county legislative leaders across Kenya.
Senatorial Tenure
In the 2017 general elections, Kihika successfully contested for the Nakuru County Senate seat on a Jubilee Party ticket, becoming the county’s first female senator. Her election elevated her profile nationally and showcased her ability to mobilize support across diverse voter bases. Shortly after her election, she was appointed Senate Majority Whip, a critical leadership position responsible for coordinating party strategy, guiding legislative priorities, and maintaining discipline within the Senate.
Her time as Majority Whip coincided with rising factionalism within Jubilee Party, particularly between President Uhuru Kenyatta’s camp and Deputy President William Ruto’s emerging faction. Kihika aligned herself with Ruto, positioning herself for future political opportunities. She also represented Kenya on international platforms, including serving as President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Bureau of Women Parliamentarians, advocating for greater female political participation globally.
Historic Governorship Victory
The 2022 general elections marked a historic milestone for Kihika when she ran for governor of Nakuru County on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. She defeated the incumbent, Lee Kinyanjui, with a significant margin, becoming the first female governor of Nakuru County and one of only seven women elected governors in Kenya that year.
Her campaign focused on infrastructure development, healthcare improvements, agricultural empowerment, youth and women’s initiatives, and inclusive governance. Her victory was widely interpreted as a reflection of voters’ desire for a fresh approach to county leadership and a break from traditional political patterns.
Leadership Style and Policy Agenda
As governor, Kihika has pursued an assertive and ambitious agenda. Her key initiatives include:
Infrastructure Development: Upgrading roads, markets, and public facilities to stimulate economic growth and improve service delivery.
Healthcare Expansion: Strengthening county hospitals, supporting maternal and child health programs, and advocating for better healthcare services.
Youth and Women Empowerment: Introducing programs aimed at entrepreneurship, vocational training, and opportunities for marginalized groups.
Transparency and Accountability: Promoting open governance and citizen participation in decision-making processes.
Her leadership style is often described as bold and decisive. While this has earned her respect among supporters, it has also generated friction with political rivals and certain members of the county assembly.
Controversies and Public Scrutiny
Kihika’s tenure has not been without challenges:
Maternity Leave Debate: In 2024, she traveled to the United States to give birth to twins, sparking public debate over her extended absence from county affairs. Critics questioned her commitment to leadership, while supporters argued she was exercising her right to maternity leave and that governance continued under her Deputy Governor, David Kones.
Political Tensions:
Kihika has faced opposition from local leaders, including disputes with county senators and assembly members. These tensions have occasionally spilled into the media, highlighting the competitive nature of devolved politics in Kenya.
National Political Engagement: She has actively engaged in national debates, defending allies and family members against political attacks and asserting her influence in broader party dynamics.
Significance and Legacy
Susan Kihika’s political journey offers insight into the changing dynamics of Kenyan politics:
Breaking Gender Barriers: As one of the few female leaders in top county positions, she serves as a role model for women aspiring to political office.
Shaping Devolved Governance: Her tenure illustrates both the opportunities and challenges of county-level leadership under Kenya’s 2010 Constitution.
National Political Influence:
Kihika’s alignment with UDA and engagement in national debates demonstrates her growing influence beyond Nakuru County.
Her story is a testament to determination, strategic thinking, and resilience in the face of both political and personal challenges.
Looking Ahead
As Kenya approaches the 2027 general elections, Kihika’s role as governor, her national influence, and her ability to navigate political rivalries will be closely watched. Whether she continues to consolidate power in Nakuru or expands her influence to the national stage, her career provides a blueprint for leadership in a complex, evolving political environment — one that balances ambition, governance, and the quest for lasting impact.
