Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has announced his retirement from active politics after serving the public for over three decades.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 27, after receiving an honorary doctorate from Laikipia University for his distinguished service, Dr. Kiraitu said he plans to focus on promoting happiness and mentoring political leaders about life beyond elective roles.
Kiraitu’s political career began in 1992 when he was first elected to Parliament. He later served as a cabinet minister under President Mwai Kibaki before becoming Meru Senator in 2013. In 2017, he won the Meru gubernatorial seat, serving until his defeat by Governor Kawira Mwangaza in 2022.
At the award ceremony, Dr. Kiraitu opened up about the emotional toll of losing the 2022 elections, revealing it almost led him into depression. “I was very, very unhappy when I lost the elections. I thought I would win. Every politician thinks they are going to win. When you lose, and have no plan B, you feel totally lost,” he said.
He described experiencing what he called post-election depression, a phase he believes is rarely discussed in political scholarship. This period prompted him to explore happiness seriously, leading him to undergo nine months of counseling and specialized classes that transformed his outlook on life.
This journey inspired Kiraitu to launch a “happiness crusade,” aimed at helping others, especially politicians, find fulfillment beyond election results. “I started thinking about happiness because I was very, very unhappy myself,” he explained.
While stepping away from electoral politics, Dr. Kiraitu said he will remain active in what he terms “low-temperature politics.” This involves advising political leaders and contributing to democratic discussions without the intensity and pressure of campaigning. “Even if you don’t see me on top of trucks campaigning, I’m still thinking about democracy,” he said.
Kiraitu’s retirement comes shortly after another veteran politician, former Kigumo MP Jamleck Kamau, announced a temporary break from active politics. Kamau cited personal reasons for stepping back but promised to continue engaging with his supporters through consultations and interactions, assuring them he intends to return to the political arena in the future.
Through his retirement, Kiraitu hopes to emphasize that life after politics can be fulfilling, encouraging leaders to plan beyond electoral victories and prioritize personal well-being and community mentorship.
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