This archive report was first published on 22 September 2019.
Published on September 22, 2019, by JOSEPH WANGUI, a seasoned journalist.
Catherine Wanjiku Waruguru, Laikipia's Woman Representative, has become synonymous with controversy and public spats. Her abrasive and outspoken nature has made her a household name, often for the wrong reasons.
According to the Mzalendo blog, Waruguru has spoken at least 88 times in Parliament, mostly on matters related to Laikipia or in defense of Deputy President William Ruto.
Her penchant for controversy was on full display last Sunday when she stormed the AIPCA Nanyuki church with over 200 supporters, prompting the church leadership to kick her out.
Waruguru's actions were a response to her desire to assert her influence in Laikipia County, particularly in matters related to Ruto. However, her theology background and role as a praise-and-worship leader at her local church seem to take a backseat when it comes to politics.
Her history of public spats is well-documented, including an incident where she attempted to storm a meeting where Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i was addressing local leaders and security bosses at the Mt Kenya Safari Club in Nanyuki town.
Waruguru's troubles with the law have been well-documented, including her arrest after Dr. Matiang'i left the meeting. Her controversies have also drawn criticism from fellow politicians, including Ainabkoi MP William Chepkut, who has reminded her of the futility of fighting the government.
Waruguru's rise to national prominence can be attributed to the Kericho hotel chronicle, where she was blocked from spending the night at the Sunshine Upperhill Hotel without producing a marriage certificate.
Her moniker 'Mrembo wa Laikipia' was given to her in 2015 during her days as an MCA, when President Kenyatta posed the question, 'Mrembo wa Laikipia hauna kitu ya kusema?' (Laikipia's belle has nothing to say?)
