- Former Meru governor Kiraitu Murungi has hinted that he is stepping down from politics, saying he will now focus on promoting happiness
- Murungi announced the decision after receiving an honorary doctorate from Laikipia University
- Recalling his defeat in the 2022 elections, Murungi said he suffered from “post-election depression” before discovering positive psychology.
- Despite rumors about a return to politics before the 2027 elections, Murungi confirmed that he will pursue politics on the sidelines
Former Governor of Meru, Kiraitu Murungihas announced his resignation from politics, showing a tendency to leave the electoral competition and instead promote happiness and become an advisor to other politicians.
Source: UGC
Murungi’s political announcement was made on Tuesday morning, January 27, shortly after he received an honorary doctorate from Laikipia University in recognition of his decades of service in public leadership.
Why is Kiraitu Murungi leaving politics?
Speaking to friends, family, and those who were praying for him, the lawyer said the decision followed more than 30 years of direct participation in Kenyan politics.
“I have learned a lot. After serving more than 30 years in politics, it is time to focus on spreading happiness,” said Murungi during the award ceremony.
Murungi’s political journey began in 1992 when he was elected for the first time as a Member of Parliament.
During those years, he served as a Minister under the President Mwai Kibakiwon the Meru Senate seat in 2013, and later became the governor of Meru in 2017.
He lost in the 2022 gubernatorial election and Kawira Mwangaza defeat him.
Remembering the failure of the election, Murungi said he was faced with what he calls “post-election depression”.
He explained that he spent most of his adult life in politics and was not ready for life outside.
“It is true that I was very sad when I lost the election. I thought I could win. Every politician thinks he will win. They are very shocked when they lose. I think the chairman there can tell you. Then you don’t have a plan. So it comes, you remain completely lost. There is something called depression after the election, which I know very well,” Murungi admitted.
What contributed to Murungi choosing a new step?
It was during this difficult period that Murungi discovered the field of positive psychology and the study of happiness.
He enrolled in a nine-month program to explore the science of happiness, which changed his perspective on life and success.
The former MP said he realized that instead of focusing on losses, he could celebrate his many victories and use his experiences to help someone else find meaning and satisfaction in life.
“I realized I have no reason to be sad. Because I won so many elections. I only lost once. So, why should I not celebrate the victory I got? And you know, spend my days feeling sorry for just one,” he added.
Murungi explained that happiness is everyone’s goal and should not be linked only to wealth, honor, or power.
He stressed that the workplace, where people spend most of their time, is often dangerous and stressful.
This understanding has motivated him to establish the “Happiness at Work Program”, which aims to improve the well-being of employees in various sectors.
Source: Facebook
Lower political order
Despite rumors about a return to politics ahead of the 2027 elections, Murungi clarified that he will instead take a low-profile political path, offering consultancy services.
His wife, Priscillah Murungi, embraced the decision, noting that it is the right time for her husband to focus on new activities.
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