Wambui signs condolence book as 'Her Excellency'

Friday, 22 April 2011 00:01 BY WAMBUGU KANYI

SIGNED: The condolence message which Mary Wambui wrote when she visited the home of the late councilor Patrick Kahiko Mugo.

POLITICAL activist Mary Wambui is coming under increasing pressure from local leaders to run for the seat of women's representative in the Nyeri County.
In recognition of her status, she titled herself "Her Excellency" when she signed the condolence book on April 16 at the home of the Karima ward councillor Patrick Kahiko Mugo. "It is God who gives and has taken you away. We loved you so much but God has taken you to his eternal peace. Rest in peace," Wambui wrote in the guest book. "Her Excellency" is a title used by ambassadors, heads of state and their spouses.
Speaking during the burial of Kahiko who died on April 13, local leaders said it was time Wambui declared her interest in the post of women's representative in the county.
Leaders present at the funeral service on Wednesday included Youth assistant minister Kabando wa Kabando, former Information minister Mutahi Kagwe, Othaya CDF chairman Karanja Mwangi, Othaya Development Association chairman Gichuki Mugambi, Othaya Town Council chairman Maina Murachu and over 60 councillors.
Those who spoke during the funeral service at Kagumo Secondary School described Wambui as the person best suited to represent women in the county.
The leaders included former Mathira MP Nderitu Gachagua who intends to run for Nyeri governor.“You have been crisscrossing the country helping those in need. You have what it takes to be a leader. We are now waiting for you to declare your intention for the seat. We are ready with our votes to elect you,” Gachagua told Wambui.
Nyeri County Council chairman Wachira Maina Keen said Wambui had all the characteristics needed for the women representative and urged her to join the race. Wambui declined to comment when she was asked whether she would do as the leaders requested.
Addressing the mourners, Wambui described the late councillor as a generous leader who helped President Kibaki during his campaigns.
She said she and Kahiko had campaigned together for Kibaki in 2007 when the councillor was also reelected. "Kahiko was my long-time friend. Let's elect people of integrity like him. We shall support his family,” said Wambui of the councillor who had a heart attack and is survived by two wives and six children.
Politics dominated the ceremony with Gachagua urging those present to support him in the race for governor while Kagwe pleaded his case for the post of senator. Kagwe and Gachagua called on the government to slash fuel prices saying the recent cut was too little for the common man.