Shock as 46 governors skip Nyeri governor Mutahi Kahiga's swearing-in event

The new Nyeri governor Mutahi Kahiga was on Monday, November 13 sworn in an event which was curiously skipped by all the other 46 governors.The deputy governor takes over from Governor Wahome Gakuru, who died in a car crash last week.Kahiga, a former teacher, was sworn-in on Monday outside Nyeri county offices in a ceremony attended by about 500 residents. However, despite pledging support for him, none of the other 46 governors was present at the ceremony. The ceremony was presided over by Judge Jarius Ngaa.Notable leaders present included ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru, who is chairing the national organizing funeral committee for the late governor, former Nyeri governor Samuel Wamathai, Kirinyaga Deputy Governor Peter Ndambiri and Elgeyo-Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen.Kahiga’s swearing-in puts to rest uncertainty over the fate of his ascension to power following reports that some local leaders were scheming to block him from taking office.Governor Kahiga has told off his critics saying he is up to task and promised Nyeri residents of his dedication and commitment in delivering the dream the departed governor had for the county.There was a short cleansing ceremony in the morning because two Nyeri governors have died in office this year.“We will be praying against the spirit of death that has stolen from residents two governors. We want to pray for prosperity and development of the county,” said Bishop Paul Wanjohi, before the prayers.Kahiga on Monday told Nyeri residents not to lose hope. He said he is committed to serving them.County spokesperson Muthui Kariuki said they settled on the swearing-in date after considering the availability of governors. The county had discussed logistics with the Council of Governors.