In the fast-shifting landscape of Kenyan politics, few figures are as resilient and vocal as Hon. Catherine “Cate” Waruguru. Known popularly as “Mama Simba” (The Lioness) for her fierce debating style and unwavering defense of her constituents, Waruguru has once again signaled that she is far from finished with her mission for the people of Laikipia.
A recent update from her official channels, dated January 19, 2026, reinforces her position as a central figure in the Mount Kenya political arena. As the country looks toward the 2027 general elections, Waruguru is making it clear: she is focused, prayerful, and standing firmly with her new political home.
The DCP Shift: “Skiza Wakenya”
The most significant development in Waruguru’s recent career is her transition to the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). Launched in mid-2025 by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, the DCP has positioned itself as a “citizen-driven” alternative under the slogan Skiza Wakenya (Listen to Kenyans).
In May 2025, Waruguru was appointed as the National Women Leader for the DCP, a role that leverages her long-standing history of championing women’s rights and social justice. Addressing rumors of a possible exit from the party, Waruguru recently told her critics to “relax,” affirming that she remains “firmly DCP, strong, and moving forward.”
A Legacy of Boldness
Waruguru’s journey to national prominence began in the Laikipia County Assembly (2013–2017) before she was elected as the Laikipia County Women Representative in 2017. Her educational background is as diverse as her political career, holding a Diploma in Theology from Karatina Institute of Theological College and a Bachelor’s in Business Management from Karatina University.
Throughout her tenure, she has been a polarizing but undeniably effective “mover.” Whether commissioning electricity transformers in Njoguini or advocating for the “one-term government” hashtag on social media, she has consistently stayed in the headlines. Her political path has seen her navigate through the Jubilee Party and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), eventually aligning with the Gachagua-led DCP after a fallout with the current administration.
Eyes on the Future
As January 2026 unfolds, Waruguru has described the month as a “season of prayer, reflection, and purpose.” Her messaging remains heavily focused on her home base in Laikipia, where she continues to command a significant following.
While she previously faced a setback in the 2022 UDA primaries for the Laikipia East parliamentary seat, her recent appointment to the DCP national leadership suggests she is preparing for a major comeback. Her use of hashtags like #daughterofzion and #mamasimba reflects a blend of faith and political strength that resonates with many in the Rift Valley and Central regions.
Conclusion
Cate Waruguru remains a barometer for the political temperature in Mount Kenya. By sticking to her guns with the DCP and maintaining a “tuko pamoja” (we are together) relationship with the people of Laikipia, she is signaling that the 2027 battlefield will be defined by those who claim to truly “listen” to the citizens.
For “Mama Simba,” the hunt for a more inclusive and representative government is just beginning.
Metropolitan 