Faith Nyasuguta
In a pivotal moment for Kenya’s politi, Professor Kithure Kindiki was sworn in as Deputy President on November 1, 2024. The ceremony, held at Nairobi’s Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), formalized Kindiki’s ascension following the impeachment of his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, last month. Attended by President William Ruto, Chief Justice Martha Koome, and several high-ranking officials, the event marked a significant shift in the country’s political scene.
Kindiki’s swearing-in came after a court ruling lifted a two-week delay imposed on the process. At precisely 10:50 a.m., the former Interior Cabinet Secretary took his oath, promising to serve Kenya with integrity. “I, Kithure Kindiki, do swear that I will always truly and diligently serve the people of Kenya…that I will diligently discharge my duties and perform my functions…to the best of my judgment…so help me God,” he declared solemnly, sealing his commitment to the nation.
Before his appointment as Deputy President, Kindiki was well-known for his role as Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, a position he held since October 2022. During his tenure, he initiated several key reforms, including streamlining police operations, expanding education programs for incarcerated individuals, and eliminating prior vetting procedures for national ID issuance. His efforts gained him recognition for a hands-on approach to leadership, focused on reform and inclusion.
Kindiki’s political journey began in 2013 when he was elected as the Senator for Tharaka Nithi County. He quickly rose through the ranks, serving as Senate Majority Leader from 2013 to 2017 and as Deputy Speaker from 2017 to 2020. His academic achievements are also notable: Kindiki, a Lenana School alumnus, studied law at Moi University before earning a Ph.D. in international law from the University of Pretoria.
His early career saw him advising high-profile figures, including on the 2007 presidential campaign of Kalonzo Musyoka. Kindiki also played a role in President William Ruto’s legal defense at the International Criminal Court, and he contributed significantly to the development of the Jubilee Party’s constitution and manifestos in 2013 and 2017.
The impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua, Kindiki’s predecessor, was a controversial process, with over two-thirds of Kenyan lawmakers voting in favor on October 17, 2024. Gachagua faced allegations of corruption, inciting ethnic divisions, and supporting anti-government protests, all of which underscored growing divisions within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
Tensions had been mounting for months, especially after Gachagua publicly opposed forced evictions during heavy rains, a policy enforced by President Ruto’s government in response to severe flooding. Gachagua argued that the evictions were unnecessary and worsened the suffering of displaced communities, a stance that put him at odds with other government officials.
Gachagua’s legal team has challenged his impeachment, citing insufficient evidence and alleging that he was denied a fair hearing. The legal battle delayed Kindiki’s swearing-in, but the court ultimately ruled in favor of moving forward. Gachagua continues to contest his removal, deepening public discourse on governance, accountability, and unity within the UDA.
As Deputy President, Kindiki will face numerous challenges amid Kenya’s complex socio-political environment. Economic instability, rising costs of living, and recent tax hikes have stirred public dissatisfaction, leading to nationwide anti-government protests. In June, demonstrations erupted over a finance bill proposing tax increases, culminating in violent confrontations as protesters stormed and burned parts of the parliamentary building. The unrest led to several deaths and intensified scrutiny on President Ruto’s administration.
One of the key points of contention has been Ruto’s economic policies, particularly his strategy of raising taxes to service Kenya’s foreign debt obligations. Although Ruto had positioned himself as a champion of Kenya’s poor during his campaign, his administration’s fiscal approach has strained his relationship with the public. Following the backlash, Ruto reshuffled his Cabinet and walked back on some proposals, but criticism remains high.
Kindiki’s appointment is widely seen as an effort by Ruto to regain stability within his administration. Known for his strategic thinking and dedication to public service, Kindiki is expected to bridge political gaps and address the challenges facing Kenya, from economic woes to public security concerns. Observers are closely watching how he will navigate these issues and what impact his leadership will have on Ruto’s broader policy agenda.
The swearing-in of Kindiki as Deputy President symbolizes a fresh chapter in Kenyan politics. With his extensive background in law and public service, Kindiki is well-positioned to steer the country toward greater stability. However, he will need to navigate economic challenges and address the demands of a populace weary of high living costs and political discord. The coming months will be crucial as he seeks to fulfill his promises and bolster confidence in the government’s commitment to a prosperous future for Kenya.
RELATED:
