This archive report was first published on 7 May 2021.
On May 7, 2021, a significant shift in leadership occurred in the Laikipia county assembly, with the majority leader, Peter Thomi of Githiga ward, being replaced by Joseph Kiguru of Igwamiti ward.
The move has been interpreted as a reading of 2022 politics, with some speculating about the involvement of Governor Ndiritu Muriithi in the change.
According to sources, Governor Muriithi may have played a silent role in consolidating his power base to defend his seat in the upcoming election.
Additionally, the Jubilee MCAs, who form the majority in the house, also axed the deputy majority leader, Mutahi Muritu of Tigithi ward, and replaced him with Veronica Ikunywa of Nanyuki Town ward.
The changes in the House leadership were communicated by speaker Patrick Waigwa after he received minutes of a meeting chaired by assembly whip Charubo Kaparo of Segera ward.
Thomi was removed from the county assembly Public Service Board, along with minority leader Jacob Edom of Sossion ward, who were replaced by Daniel Mugweru of Umande ward and nominated MCA Catherine Kibue.
Joseph Kiguru, the incoming majority leader, attributed the removal of his predecessor to miscommunication in the running of the government.
Thomi was not present during the session, while minority leader Jacob Edom protested his removal from the service board, suggesting that the seat should have gone to Laikipia North instead of East.
