Why Anne Waiguru stands a chance as a potential deputy president

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru. [Samson Wire, Standard].

Anne Waiguru stands at the brink of history, poised to break Kenya's highest glass ceiling.

As discussions about Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment grow, Waiguru’s name has emerged as a strong contender for the nation’s second-highest office. This moment could reshape her career and alter Kenya’s political trajectory.

A recent survey ranked Waiguru as the second most suitable candidate to replace Gachagua, making her the only woman among the top contenders.

Her unique position in this male-dominated race underscores her potential influence. Her bid has garnered widespread support, not only from fellow female governors in the G7 alliance but also from her constituents in Kirinyaga County, who view her success as a collective victory.

If successful, Waiguru would become Kenya’s first female Deputy President—a milestone in the country’s political landscape.

Earlier this year, during the launch of the Women Governors Caucus G7 strategy, President William Ruto reiterated his administration's commitment to gender equality, promising to enforce the two-thirds gender rule within his United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the broader Kenya Kwanza government.

Ruto pledged to field a female candidate for Deputy President in future elections. “When DP Rigathi Gachagua and I agree on our future path, we must also agree that if a man is a candidate for president, then a woman must be the running mate, and vice versa,” said Ruto.

Known for her resilience, strategic acumen, and ambition, Waiguru has navigated both county and national politics. From surviving political battles to leading reforms in Kirinyaga, she has consistently demonstrated her capabilities.

Now, with the nation watching, one question remains; could Waiguru reshape Kenya’s leadership and usher in a new era of inclusive governance?

Governance expert Javas Bigambo believes  Waiguru’s chances of being selected as Deputy President are strong. He references her experience, political skills, and strategic alliances, despite past controversies, as key strengths.

“The possibility of her being picked is not remote. She is a conscious political actor and deliberate about her political direction,” says Bigambo. He also notes that “She brings both bureaucratic and political experience,” making her a unique contender for the role.

However, Bigambo poses a crucial question; Can Waiguru master the balance between soft and hard politics? Her ability to do so could determine if she surpasses Gachagua as the dominant political figure in the Mt. Kenya region.

Another challenge for Waiguru is breaking through the gender barriers within Kikuyu leadership. As Bigambo points out, no woman has held significant political influence in Kikuyu leadership since the era of Wangu wa Makeri.

For Waiguru, this is not just about attaining office but also becoming a central figure in Mt. Kenya politics, challenging long-standing norms.

On the other hand, governance analyst Gitile Naituli offers a different perspective. He argues that the shadow of the National Youth Service (NYS) scandal continues to linger, and if Ruto appoints Waiguru, it could deepen Kenyans' distrust in his leadership.

“People have not forgotten the NYS scandal. Given the existing skepticism towards the president, pairing him with Waiguru could be contentious. The public remembers, and we need to stop giving opportunities to those who have demonstrated a lack of accountability,” Naituli holds.

He suggests that with Gen Z advocating for good governance and integrity, Ruto would be wise to appoint someone with a spotless record to meet their expectations for ethical leadership.

Bigambo, however, counters that Waiguru remains legally eligible for public office, as no court has found her guilty in connection with the NYS scandal. “The NYS scandal was significant, but in matters of ethics and accountability, no court has found her culpable. Without proven guilt, she is eligible to hold any office, including a State office,” he concludes.

Political Career

Waiguru’s political ambitions and endorsements are not new. In 2022, she disclosed that she had received two offers to serve as Deputy President, with support from various leaders, including religious figures. Now, with the possibility of Gachagua’s impeachment, Waiguru’s prospects seem more tangible than ever.

Beyond politics, Waiguru’s qualifications further strengthen her credibility. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and Home Economics from Egerton University and a Master’s degree in Economic Policy from the University of Nairobi, specializing in public finance and governance.

Her career in public service began as a consultant for the Public Service Reform Secretariat under President Mwai Kibaki’s administration, on secondment from the World Bank and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

She later joined the National Treasury, leading governance efforts and the Economic Stimulus Programme. In 2013, Waiguru became Kenya’s first Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Devolution and Planning, appointed by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

After resigning from this position, she transitioned to county politics, winning the governorship of Kirinyaga. In 2017, she became the first female Vice Chair of the Council of Governors (CoG), later serving as Chair after the 2022 election.