Why Ruto Settled on Kindiki for Deputy President: The Calculated Move to Reshape Kenyan Politics
The choice of Kindiki, a calm, loyal ally, signals Ruto's long-term political strategy, but could it backfire?
19th October 2024
Digital Worldwide News
The choice of Kindiki, a calm, loyal ally, signals Ruto's long-term political strategy, but could it backfire?
19th October 2024
Digital Worldwide News
In a calculated political shift that has left many speculating about the future of Kenya’s leadership, President William Ruto has appointed Kithure Kindiki as his new Deputy President, replacing Rigathi Gachagua. This decision comes on the heels of Gachagua’s impeachment and signals a strategic pivot in Ruto’s approach to consolidating power and managing alliances.
The appointment of Kindiki, a former lawyer who represented Ruto at the International Criminal Court (ICC) during the 2007-8 post-election violence, highlights the enduring bond between the two leaders. Kindiki’s calm demeanor and loyalty to Ruto have often positioned him as a critical ally in turbulent political waters. But what led to his elevation to the second-highest office in the land?
The Ruto-Kindiki Relationship: A Friendship Forged in Crisis
President William Ruto and Kithure Kindiki’s relationship goes back many years. It was Kindiki who stood by Ruto when the latter faced charges of crimes against humanity at the ICC. During one of Kenya's darkest political periods, Kindiki was part of the legal team that fought tooth and nail to defend Ruto, eventually playing a significant role in getting him acquitted.
This shared experience cemented a bond that transcended professional loyalty. Kindiki's unwavering support of Ruto has continued throughout his career, notably during the 2022 presidential campaign. He served as Ruto's chief agent, overseeing operations at the Bomas of Kenya as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) tallied votes.
Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki noted the natural "chemistry" between the two, explaining, “Kindiki is humble, treats everyone with respect, and has nationwide appeal. He’s exactly the kind of leader Ruto needs by his side.”
𝔸𝕟𝕠𝕟𝕪𝕞𝕠𝕦𝕤𝕖 @maasaigoaat
Cs Kithure Kindiki has shown that he's ready to take on the role of DP, bringing effective leadership and security focus to support Ruto’s government. #WhyKindiki
Why Gachagua Fell Out of Favor
Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment may have seemed sudden, but sources within the Kenya Kwanza Alliance reveal that it had been a long time coming. Gachagua, while instrumental in securing the crucial Mount Kenya votes during the 2022 election, often clashed with other key political figures within the government.
There was also tension between Gachagua and Kindiki as early as the DP selection process in 2022. Many leaders in Ruto's camp, particularly from Mount Kenya, preferred Kindiki over Gachagua. But, according to political insiders, Gachagua's political shrewdness and ability to rally the region’s financial muscle behind Ruto gave him the edge—at least temporarily.
“Kinyoro alitumiwa,” commented a Twitter user, @pkemoyy, alluding to the fact that Gachagua was essentially a tool for votes and campaign funding but was always destined to be replaced.
Kindiki's Calm and Ruto's Strategy
Kindiki’s calm but firm leadership style is seen as a stark contrast to Gachagua’s more confrontational approach. According to political analyst Deep State (@Denohsenior), Kindiki represents a safer, more refined choice to help Ruto reshape his government’s image and foster broader national appeal.
“Kindiki’s quiet demeanor and behind-the-scenes work style make him a canny and cautious politician. He’s the kind of leader who can balance regional interests while working to support Ruto’s long-term political strategy,” said the analyst.
Yet, this decision is not without risks. Some worry that Kindiki’s appointment could alienate key political figures from Mount Kenya, potentially threatening political stability. But for Ruto, the potential rewards of having a loyal, low-profile Deputy President like Kindiki seem to outweigh the risks.
The List of Contenders for DP
The race to fill the Deputy President position after Gachagua’s ousting was fiercely competitive. Prominent names such as Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah were all in the mix.
However, Kindiki emerged as the preferred choice. His nationwide appeal and close relationship with Ruto were decisive factors. Sources within Kenya Kwanza suggest that Ruto had a shortlist of candidates that included Kindiki, Ichung’wah, and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire. Ultimately, it was Kindiki who ticked all the right boxes.
Shawry for Kirinyaga🇰🇪 @reen_thee_only
Nakumbuka Kithure karibu alie when Ruto chose Gachagua as his Dp.. Ruto knew be needed to blind kikuyus by making them believe they had a share in the gvt. Now he knows Kindiki is just interested in the title and he's never going to question him. Kwisha sisi!!
The Road to Endorsement
Kindiki’s journey to the Deputy President’s office was not without competition. After Gachagua’s impeachment, Ruto and his inner circle conducted an intense vetting process. Kindiki’s calm demeanor, loyalty, and regional support gave him the edge over other contenders, including Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika.
On Friday, a Senate vote overwhelmingly supported Kindiki’s nomination. Parliament Speaker Moses Wetang’ula announced the nomination at a special sitting, calling Kindiki a man of "efficiency and dignity." Wetang’ula praised Kindiki's vast political experience and assured the nation that he was more than qualified for the role.
Accolades and Criticism Pour In
As soon as the nomination was made official, Kindiki received accolades from political leaders across the board. Waiguru, one of his main competitors, was quick to congratulate him on Twitter, saying, “History has placed an honor and responsibility accorded to only a few.”
Other leaders, such as Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi, lauded Kindiki’s dedication to public service and his ability to unite the country.
Yet not all reactions were positive. Critics, particularly from Gachagua’s camp, have warned that this move could lead to division within the Kenya Kwanza Alliance and Mount Kenya's political landscape. Despite this, Ruto seems confident that Kindiki will prove to be a unifying figure.