Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika is back in the country after spending over five months in the United States, a period during which her absence sparked intense debate and criticism among county residents and political leaders.
On Friday, April 25, Kihika shared photos on social media, showing her reunited with family and close friends at her home.
In her Facebook post, she expressed deep gratitude to those who came to welcome her and her newborn twin sons, whom she gave birth to while in the US.
“Truly blessed and overwhelmed with gratitude,” Kihika wrote. “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.”
Her prolonged absence from public office drew sharp criticism, with some residents questioning her extended stay abroad, especially given that Kenyan law permits up to 90 days of maternity leave.
Calls for accountability grew louder, with concerns raised about a leadership vacuum in the county.
At the height of the controversy, Nakuru resident Evans Kimori even addressed a letter to US President Donald Trump, requesting assistance in facilitating Kihika’s return to Kenya.
In the letter, Kimori cited disruptions in key services such as the closure of War Memorial Hospital as evidence of the negative impact of her absence.
He claimed that Kihika’s prolonged stay in the US was undermining the trust of Nakuru voters and eroding public confidence in county leadership.
Despite the backlash, Kihika maintained online engagement during her stay, regularly posting updates on development projects in Nakuru.
She also received strong support from fellow women leaders in Kenya, who dismissed the criticism as gender-based and reaffirmed her right to maternity leave.
Among those who welcomed her back were Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, Millicent Omanga, Beatrice Elachi, and members of KEWOPA (Kenya Women Parliamentary Association).
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