Governor Susan Kihika Returns to Kenya After Over Five Months in the United States
Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has officially returned to Kenya after spending over five months in the United States.
Her extended absence, which sparked intense public discourse and political scrutiny, concluded on Friday, April 25, with a warm reception by family, friends, and political colleagues at her home in Nakuru.
Governor Kihika, who welcomed twin sons during her stay abroad, took to social media to express her heartfelt appreciation to those who visited her upon her return.
In a post shared on Facebook, she posted several photos from the intimate homecoming, showcasing moments with loved ones and fellow leaders who had gathered to celebrate her return and the arrival of her newborns.
“Truly blessed and overwhelmed with gratitude. I was deeply humbled and honored to receive a warm visit from my dear friends who came to welcome me home and celebrate the arrival of my twin babies,” Kihika wrote. “Your love, prayers, and presence mean the world to me and my family. Thank you for standing with me in this special season of double blessings.”
The Governor’s extended absence from office had drawn criticism from various quarters, particularly from some residents of Nakuru County and members of the political opposition.
While Governor Kihika clarified that she was on maternity leave, the length of her stay—exceeding five months—prompted questions regarding its legality and impact on county governance.
Under Kenyan law, maternity leave for public officials is limited to a maximum of 90 days, a benchmark which her absence surpassed by a considerable margin.
During her time away, several concerns were raised regarding the functioning of the county government. Residents and civil society groups expressed unease over what they termed a “leadership vacuum,” citing stalled public services and a lack of clear communication regarding the management of county affairs in her absence.
These concerns culminated in formal petitions to the Nakuru County Assembly, seeking transparency and accountability regarding the executive leadership during the Governor’s time abroad.
One of the most notable developments during her absence was a letter authored by Nakuru resident Evans Kimori, addressed to then-President of the United States, Donald Trump. In the letter, Kimori requested that the U.S. government facilitate Governor Kihika’s return to Kenya, claiming her prolonged stay was negatively affecting essential services in the county, including the reported closure of the War Memorial Hospital.
“On behalf of the residents of Nakuru, I respectfully request your intervention in facilitating her return to Kenya so that she can resume her duties,” the letter read. “The people of Nakuru deserve accountable leadership, and her continued stay in the U.S. undermines the trust and democratic mandate placed on her by the electorate.”
Despite the criticism, Governor Kihika maintained an active presence on social media, where she regularly posted updates on development projects and other ongoing initiatives in Nakuru.
Her supporters argued that she remained engaged in her responsibilities remotely and emphasized her right to maternity leave as enshrined in Kenyan employment law.
Notably, several women leaders and gender rights advocates came to her defense, condemning the backlash against her as being laced with gender bias. Political figures such as Moses Kuria, Millicent Omanga, Beatrice Elachi, and members of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) voiced their support, asserting that criticism directed at Kihika was disproportionate and rooted in societal double standards that often subject female leaders to unfair scrutiny.
The Governor’s return now marks the beginning of a new chapter, both in her personal life as a mother of twins and in her professional capacity as the leader of Nakuru County.
Her re-entry into active governance is expected to reinvigorate county leadership and address the concerns that arose during her absence.
Political analysts suggest that how she navigates this period will be crucial in reestablishing public confidence and advancing her development agenda.
As Nakuru residents and stakeholders await her first official public appearance since her return, attention remains focused on how Governor Kihika will address the controversy surrounding her absence and reassure constituents of her continued commitment to leadership and service delivery.
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Governor Susan Kihika Returns to Kenya After Over Five Months in the United States
