Kindiki Nominated as Next Deputy President
The announcement was made on Friday, October 18, 2024, by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula during a Parliament session.
Nominated Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.Photo/The Kenya Times.
By Robert Mutasi
President William Ruto has nominated Interior Cabinet Secretary, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, to assume the role of Deputy President, replacing Rigathi Gachagua.
The announcement was made on Friday, October 18, 2024, by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula during a Parliament session.
“I have a message from the President on the nomination of Prof. Kithure Kindiki, EGH, to fill the vacancy in the Office of the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya,” Wetangula stated, formally introducing Kindiki’s nomination.
The move comes after weeks of speculation regarding potential candidates to succeed Gachagua, who has faced growing criticism and internal pressure from within the government.
An opinion poll conducted by Infotrak last week revealed that Kindiki was the most popular choice among Kenyans to take over as Deputy President.
The poll indicated that 20 percent of respondents preferred Kindiki over other prominent figures in the political landscape.
Prof. Kindiki, who currently serves as the Interior CS, has garnered a reputation for his calm and steady approach to governance.
His leadership style has earned him praise, particularly during times of national security challenges, and has positioned him as a trusted ally within President Ruto’s administration.
The Infotrak poll also highlighted several other big names as potential replacements for Gachagua.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga, Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, and even opposition leader Raila Odinga were among the names mentioned.
However, it was Kindiki who stood out, securing the highest percentage of support among the public.
The nomination marks a critical moment in Kenya’s political landscape, particularly as the country continues to navigate a complex socio-political environment.
Kindiki’s appointment, pending approval by Parliament, is expected to bring both stability and a reshuffling of power dynamics within Ruto’s administration.
Political analysts have noted that Kindiki’s calm demeanor and experience in security-related issues make him a strategic choice for Deputy President, especially as Kenya faces both internal and regional security challenges.
His leadership within the Ministry of Interior has been seen as instrumental in maintaining law and order, which has likely contributed to his rising popularity.
As the nomination process moves forward, all eyes will be on Parliament, which will have the final say on whether Prof. Kindiki officially becomes Kenya’s second in command.
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