I lost my husband just 2 years into the marriage

Embu Deputy Governor Dorothy Nditi has gone through a lot from the family front to the political arena. But her steel-willed character has seen her overcome in equal measure.

You were widowed two years into your marriage, how has it been?

It has not been easy at all, but I have worked hard and managed to overcome all.

Have you seen the worst of life?

Yes! The death of my husband. I was only 27 and just two years in my marriage and when my son was still very young. It really brought me down.

Then came the death of my dad weeks after my swearing-in as deputy governor. It was not easy losing all the people I love in my life so soon.

How is the boy coping?

He is now a mature and very responsible man. He completed Form Four last year and is waiting to join university this year.

Tell us about your other family

I am a first born in a family of seven, three boys and four girls.

Have you always been in politics?

No. I was first a teacher and later a director of development. I also served as a director in Tana Water Services Board.

Why politics then?

Quest for change in the community. I want to see people’s lives change for the better and I have always longed for the day that this will happen.

What does your job entail?

Liaising with the county Executive on the running of county affairs. Sometimes I get specific assignments — like I am currently working on county performance management.

Challenges you encounter in your work place?

There are a myriad challenges, mainly political, and just challenges of transition. Besides, women are fought everywhere from all corners but we shall survive.

Why were you being impeached?

My impeachment was about settling political scores. I was being fought for standing for the truth. It was not a smooth ride but the truth set me free.

How would you sum up the experience?

Terrible, because my integrity was being tested.

How is your relationship with Governor Martin Wambora and the MCAs who tried to impeach you?

I have been trying to embrace everyone but a seed of mistrust was planted then, which strains relationships despite our best efforts to work as a team.

You acted as governor when Mr Wambora was fighting his own impeachment. How was it?

Hard, but I took it in my stride. My team was very supportive and helpful.

How is it managing family and your official duties?

It’s easy because my son is older. I am able to give all to my work as he can take care of himself and understands my work very well. But despite the crazy schedules that we sometimes do with, I find time for him, otherwise one can easily lose touch with family.

How do you keep your skin flawless?

I am very particular about what I eat; I am a trained nutritionist. So whenever you see me eating, it is strictly balanced and I take a lot of water and fruits as well. I also hit the gym for 30 minutes every day early morning.

What do you do during your free time?

Reading.

What are you currently reading?

I mainly read motivationals and biographies. I am now reading The Concise 33 Strategies of War, by Robert Greene.

What’s your preferred fashion style?

I dress for comfort. I also dress depending on the occasion. I am one person who prefers decency.

Are you dating?

No. Maybe I have never had the chance for this. My mind is occupied with other things and when the time comes for that it will happen. For now it is me and my son and we are good.