Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has selected Njue Njagi Kaithungu, a Maara constituency resident and agriculture executive, as his running mate for the August 9 General Election, according to a May 28 announcement at Kairubi Stadium in Chogoria.
Kaithungu, who previously served as National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) manager under Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki from 2013 to 2017, was chosen after tensions with current deputy Nyamu Kagwima escalated in 2018 over allegations of financial mismanagement.
Njuki highlighted Kaithungu's agricultural expertise and loyalty, noting the senatorial and women's representative candidates' constituencies align with the new running mate's background. He expressed regret over Kagwima's decision to challenge him on the Wiper party ticket with Maara candidate Jonnes Munene.
During a church visit, Njuki stated he had planned to seek a second term with Kagwima before the deputy's 2018 rift. Kaithungu pledged to unite the county and secure Njuki's re-election, while MPs Mbiuki and Patrick Munene endorsed the choice, emphasizing Maara's support.
UDA figures Prof Kithure Kindiki and MP Gitonga Murugara were absent from the announcement. Tharaka constituency residents criticized the selection, arguing the deputy role should remain within Njuki's home constituency. Competing tickets include Jubilee Party's Prof Erastus Njoka with Dr Mucee Rukunja and Narc Kenya's Dr Mzalendo Kibunjia with Mr Micheni Ruriani.
