Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika and her husband, Sam Mburu, on Friday, April 11, unveiled photos of their newborn twins in a heartwarming family portrait.
Governor Kihika has been in the United States on maternity leave, despite still holding office as Nakuru County boss — a situation that had sparked speculation regarding the motive behind her extended stay abroad.
However, in a recently uploaded picture, Kihika seemingly put the rumours to rest by revealing the identity of her newborns. In the touching image that has since circulated widely online, the couple is seen beaming with pride as they pose with their adorable twins.
The photo captures Kihika seated in a cosy beige armchair, radiant in a white blouse, cradling the twins on her lap. Standing beside her is her husband, Mburu, dressed in a blue patterned shirt and white trousers, gently holding the arm of the chair.
In the wake of the photo circulating on social media, various leaders took the opportunity to extend their congratulations to Governor Kihika and her family. Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi conveyed his best wishes to Mburu and his wife, expressing hopes for a bright future for the young family.
Dennis Itumbi, a close aide to President William Ruto, also joined in the celebrations, expressing joy at the birth of the twins and wishing the couple abundant blessings in the journey ahead.
Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly (MCA) Robert Alai added his voice to the chorus of goodwill: “Congratulations, Governor Susan Kihika and my brother and friend Sam Mburu, on the joyful arrival of your twins! Wishing your family endless love and happiness,” he wrote.
Governor Kihika’s absence from active county leadership has sparked debate, with some questioning how a sitting governor could remain away from official duties for such an extended period. Nonetheless, Kihika had earlier reassured the public that Nakuru County’s affairs were running smoothly under the stewardship of Deputy Governor David Kones.
Before her clarification that she was in the United States on maternity leave, speculation had swirled, with some alleging her absence was linked to business or political engagements. Others, however, had correctly guessed she had travelled to the US for the delivery of her children.
Others had purported that the governor's decision to travel to the US was due to the fast-changing political atmosphere that required her to re-strategise ahead of the 2027 elections.
Another section of netizens had alleged that the governor was reportedly operating a private law firm in the United States.
Her prolonged absence prompted Evans Kimori, a Kenyan citizen, to write to U.S. President Donald Trump seeking the deportation of Kihika, expressing concerns about service delivery in Nakuru County.
According to Kimori, Kihika's absence has created a leadership vacuum, affecting governance and public services in the devolved unit.
