This archive report was first published on 2 November 2019.
CS Mwangi Kiunjuri's journey to the top echelons of power is a testament to his ambition and resilience. Born in Nyeri 50 years ago, Kiunjuri had an average childhood, attending local primary and secondary schools before proceeding to Moi University where he pursued a Bachelor's degree in education.
It was during his time at the University that his interest in politics started after he joined the now-defunct Ford Party, led by veteran Opposition politicians Kenneth Matiba and the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga.
After losing the Laikipia gubernatorial election in 2013, Kiunjuri received a political lifeline in 2015 when President Kenyatta appointed him to succeed Anne Waiguru as the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary.
During his vetting, it became apparent that Kiunjuri's financial fortunes had changed significantly. According to a wealth declaration report by Parliament's Committee on Appointments, Kiunjuri declared his wealth to be valued at Sh798 Million as at December 2015, mainly from land holdings and buildings in Nanyuki, Sagana, and Nairobi.
However, Kiunjuri's relationship with President Kenyatta has been tumultuous, with the President publicly criticizing him for exhibiting signs of incompetence. Despite this, Kiunjuri has managed to maintain his position and has even spoken out against the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), a move that has sparked speculation about his intentions.
On October 24, 2019, Kiunjuri was spotted alongside Jubilee Nominated Senator, Isaac Mwaura, who called for a press conference in Nairobi, leading a brigade of Mt. Kenya region's leaders in casting aspersions over the BBI.
During the press conference, the leaders poked holes into the BBI, sounding a warning over the release of its highly anticipated report. Kiunjuri's appearance was the first of its kind, as no CS has joined leaders at a press conference to dismiss the BBI with seemingly political intent.
When asked about his actions, Kiunjuri defended himself, stating that he was out to show support for his friends and that he was a senior member of the community with vast experience in leadership.
As the Mt. Kenya succession battle heats up, with President Kenyatta set to retire in 2022, Kiunjuri's decision to defy the President has sparked speculation about his intentions. Some have attributed it to the influence of Deputy President William Ruto, who is said to be backing Kiunjuri to battle for the political edifice that is 'Mt. Kenya Kingpin.'
Despite the speculation, Kiunjuri has maintained that he is loyal to the President and that he is only trying to offer a solution to the region's problems.
