The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party has officially appointed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as its new deputy party leader. The announcement was made on Monday during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, a pivotal moment in the ongoing power shifts within the party. This move comes in the wake of the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was stripped of his position as deputy party leader following a vote of no confidence in the National Assembly and Senate.
The UDA’s National Executive Committee (NEC), led by the party’s National Chairperson Cecily Mbarire, announced the decision in a formal resolution. The NEC cited constitutional provisions, specifically referencing Article 75(3) and Articles 147(5) and 145(7) of the Constitution of Kenya, which determine the roles and conduct of individuals holding public office. According to these provisions, Gachagua’s inability to continue performing his duties has resulted in his ceasing to hold the deputy party leader position within the UDA.
The resolution marked a historic shift in the party’s leadership structure, as the UDA now formally welcomes Kindiki into the pivotal role of deputy party leader. Mbarire emphasized that this decision was in line with party regulations and the constitutional requirements set forth by the party’s governing laws. “His Excellency is unable to perform the duties of the Office of the Deputy Party Leader, and subsequently ceases to hold office as Deputy Party Leader,” Mbarire said, confirming that Kindiki’s appointment as deputy party leader was effective immediately.
Following the announcement, Kindiki, who has long been an influential figure in Kenyan politics, expressed his commitment to supporting President William Ruto and the UDA’s broader agenda. In his remarks, he pledged to work tirelessly to ensure the realization of the aspirations outlined by both the President and the UDA party. “I will do the job I have been given by the party to help the President achieve the agenda of the party and all members,” said Kindiki, signaling his unwavering loyalty to the party’s objectives and his determination to drive forward the political vision of the current administration.
The ceremony, which took place at the UDA party headquarters, was marked by a sense of gravitas, as party members rallied behind Kindiki, reinforcing the party’s unity and its commitment to achieving its legislative and developmental goals for the Kenyan people. Kindiki’s appointment is seen as a strategic move within the UDA, solidifying his role as a key ally to President Ruto and positioning him as a central figure within the party’s political hierarchy.
Kindiki’s rise to the deputy party leader position comes at a crucial time for the UDA, as the party navigates a period of significant political upheaval and reorganization. The impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua, who had previously held both the position of deputy president and deputy party leader, has been a controversial and polarizing issue within the party. While the impeachment process and the subsequent elevation of Kindiki to the deputy leadership position have stirred political debate, they also reflect the evolving dynamics within the UDA and the broader political landscape in Kenya.
The power shift within the UDA also signals a potential reorientation in the party’s strategy moving forward. With Kindiki now at the helm as deputy party leader, there is growing speculation about how the UDA will approach key legislative and electoral challenges in the coming years. Kindiki’s appointment could signal a renewed focus on party unity, discipline, and the delivery of the government’s promises to the electorate.
As Kenya’s political scene continues to evolve, the UDA’s leadership changes are expected to play a critical role in shaping the party’s future trajectory, particularly as the 2027 general elections loom. Kindiki’s stewardship as the new deputy party leader will likely be scrutinized closely, as many look to see how he will balance his duties within the party while supporting the broader agenda of the Ruto administration.
In conclusion, the appointment of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as the new deputy party leader of the United Democratic Alliance is a defining moment in the party’s history. As the political landscape in Kenya continues to shift, all eyes will be on Kindiki as he takes on this significant leadership role, ensuring the party’s continued relevance and influence in the years to come.
