Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki has stated he will not be swayed by discussions about his position and expects to serve until 2032. He made this remark in Meru County, responding to ODM leader Dr Oburu Oginga who said his party is eyeing the deputy presidency in talks with UDA. Kindiki emphasized that his seat is secure and he plans to help President William Ruto secure many votes from Mt Kenya.
Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki spoke in Meru County, stating he will not be deterred by ongoing discussions about his position. He stressed that he is not one to be intimidated by power politics and his seat will remain until Mt Kenya 2027. "I have heard people bringing worry here and I ask you in this government, do you know I am number two? I hear some people talking but I tell you not to be worried by small things that people say," Kindiki said.
He added, "I am the deputy president and this seat is not going anywhere. You know I have been in politics for a while and a good politician knows the day to speak and the day to be silent." This statement appeared to target Dr Oburu Oginga, who on Wednesday said ODM is aiming for the position in negotiations with UDA. Kindiki aims to deliver over one million votes from Mt Kenya East to President Ruto, and pressure from ODM has caused concern about his role as running mate in 2027.
"If you are a politician speaking every day, then you lack sense. There is a day for politics and a day for work; what will help us is making development for our people," Kindiki said. This followed an announcement by leaders from Mt Kenya on Saturday that they would leave the government if Kindiki is not Ruto's running mate.
Early this month, during President Ruto's visit to Kisumu to distribute funds via the NYOTA project, Oginga told Kindiki not to worry as ODM would not take his seat. However, over the weekend, Oginga stated they are targeting the deputy presidency in a deal with Ruto. "Those you hear talking, don't worry. We are the experts in politics. If you look at me, do you see someone who can be scared? Let's not do politics of showing contempt," Kindiki said.
During that visit, Kindiki promised the construction of the Nithi Bridge and mentioned the Meru Hospital and several Imenti roads as fulfilled promises. He is also working to ensure Ruto gains votes from Western Mt Kenya, where his rival former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua hails from.