Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, a steadfast ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, was among those honoured with awards by President William Ruto on Jamhuri Day.
His acceptance of the award has sparked questions about whether he has betrayed his long-time political partner, who is now considered Ruto’s adversary.
Ruto conferred the Chief of the Burning Spear (CBS) award on Thang’wa for his exceptional service to Kenya. Although the Senator did not attend the ceremony at State House, he later accepted the honour.
In a statement on Twitter, Thang’wa referred to the CBS award as one of the highest recognitions for service to the nation, emphasizing that it transcends political differences and highlights contributions to the collective good of the country.
“While I may not align with the current government’s policies or leadership, my acceptance of the award is a recognition of the values it upholds and the people it seeks to uplift. It is a recognition of service to Kenya, not a declaration of political allegiance. #Nakubali,” he wrote.
Despite this, Thang’wa has remained a loyal supporter of Gachagua, attending political events and church functions across the Mt. Kenya and Nairobi regions, both before and after Gachagua’s impeachment.
Thang’wa’s political career began in 2012 as an MCA for Ngewa Ward in Kiambu.
He also served as a County Executive Committee member in the Kiambu government, and before entering politics, he worked as a radio journalist.
