Lobby group demands action over leadership crisis in Nakuru

Eng Kimori Foundation founder Evans Kimori during a press conference in Nairobi. [Bernard Orwongo, Standard]

A Nakuru-based lobby group is demanding immediate intervention to address what it terms a leadership vacuum and governance crisis in the county.

The Eng Kimori Foundation said the prolonged absence of Governor Susan Kihika has triggered confusion, stalled development and exposed residents to poor service delivery.

Speaking during a press conference in Nairobi on Thursday, March 27, the foundation noted that Kihika’s five-month absence without proper communication had created a power struggle between Deputy Governor David Kones and County Secretary Samuel Mwaura.

 “The governor’s extended absence without a formal handover has left Nakuru in disarray,” said Evans Kimori, founder of the foundation.

 The lobby group listed seven demands, including the immediate reopening of War Memorial Hospital, improved public engagement and clear communication from Kihika on her absence.

 

Kimori observed that Kihika had failed to publicly address Nakuru residents or provide leadership during recent crises, including the abduction and death of fisherman Brian Odhiambo and the disappearance of the body of seven-month-old Mercy Chepng’eno at Nakuru Teaching and Referral Hospital.

 “The people of Nakuru deserve answers and leadership, not silence and confusion,” said Kimori.

 He also accused Kihika of double standards, claiming she sought medical care abroad while public hospitals in the county struggled.

 The group warned that if no action is taken, it will move to court next week to file a petition for alleged absconding of duty by the governor.

 Kimori dismissed claims that calling for accountability was gender-based, saying the lobby group’s concerns were governance and service delivery.

 “The call for leadership is not an attack on women; it is a demand for accountability,” he added.