A bitter argument has broken out between Gichugu and Kirinyaga Central constituencies over where to build the first Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) in Kirinyaga County.
What was supposed to be a countywide success story is now turning into a tense political battle that could delay or even block the project entirely.
The trouble began after Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale wrote a letter on July 14, 2025, to Education CS Migos Ogamba.
In the letter, Duale asked that 10 acres of land from Kianyaga Boys High School in Gichugu be set aside for building the KMTC campus.
This immediately sparked anger among residents and leaders from Kirinyaga Central.People in Kirinyaga Central say the move is unfair and goes against an earlier plan.
They argue that land had already been identified in Kerugoya near the modern Kerugoya Level Five Hospital, which was opened three years ago.
They say the hospital would provide direct practical training for KMTC students, making it the best location. Beth Wairimu, a resident from the area, said they were promised the college would be built in Kerugoya and now feel betrayed.
She questioned why the plan is being changed without proper explanation, calling it both confusing and unfair.
Kerugoya MCA Eric Muchina added that most KMTC campuses across Kenya are built next to referral hospitals to ensure students can easily do their clinical training. He wondered why Gichugu expects students to travel long distances to Kerugoya for practicals when the college could just be placed right next to the hospital.
His concerns have been echoed by many residents who feel the government is ignoring logic and public input.But not everyone is against the plan.
Leaders and residents from Gichugu support the idea, saying it will bring development to their area.
They point to the ongoing construction of the Kianyaga Level IV Hospital, which they believe will be a suitable place for training once it’s completed.
Margaret Njeri, a resident of Gichugu, said the college will help local youth and grow businesses around Kianyaga.
Another local, Mugo Gikombe, called for unity, saying that KMTC will help the whole county, not just one constituency.Still, the issue has attracted attention from high-profile political figures.
Martha Karua, the NARC-Kenya leader and a respected voice in the region, raised serious concerns about how public land is being handled. She said any move to take land from Kianyaga High School must involve public participation.
She warned that decisions made through secret letters could lead to land grabbing or stalled projects, and that the people must be consulted before such actions are taken.
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, who is from Kirinyaga, has asked for calm. She warned that if the heated arguments continue, the whole project could be stopped.
She reminded leaders and residents that the KMTC is supposed to benefit everyone in the county and not be turned into a tool for political fights.
She urged both sides to focus on development and work together so that the county can finally get its first medical training college.
