Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika is back in Kenya after a five-month stay in the United States, where she gave birth to twin boys. Her return on Friday, April 25, marked the end of a prolonged absence that had stirred debate among county residents and leaders.
In a Facebook post, the Governor shared photos from her homecoming event, which was attended by friends, family, and fellow leaders. Kihika expressed deep gratitude for the warm reception and the support she received during what she described as a deeply personal season.
“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. 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.” she wrote
Kihika’s absence had drawn criticism from sections of the public and political leaders, who raised concerns over the leadership vacuum in the county. While the Governor maintained that she was on maternity leave, some questioned the extended duration, noting that Kenyan law provides for up to 90 days.
At the height of the controversy, a Nakuru resident, Evans Kimori, wrote an unusual letter addressed to former U.S. President Donald Trump, seeking intervention for Kihika’s return to Kenya. Kimori claimed her absence had negatively affected county services, pointing to challenges such as the closure of the War Memorial Hospital.
Despite the backlash, Kihika remained active on her social media platforms, regularly sharing updates on ongoing development projects in Nakuru. Her defenders, including a number of women leaders, strongly condemned what they termed as gender-based attacks on the Governor.
Leaders such as Moses Kuria, Millicent Omanga, Beatrice Elachi, and members of the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) stood by Kihika, affirming her right to maternity leave and calling for a more compassionate understanding of women in leadership balancing public service and motherhood.
