Deputy President Professor Kithure Kindiki has responded cautiously to questions about his potential presidential ambitions in 2027, amid speculations that he may be eyeing the top seat should President William Ruto not pursue a second term. Speaking at a media interview in his Karen office on Thursday, Kindiki remained steadfast in his commitment to his current role, emphasizing that his sole focus is to deliver on the promises made by the Kenya Kwanza government.
During the interview, Kindiki was questioned by NTV’s Michelle Ngele on whether he would consider running for the presidency should President Ruto abandon his re-election bid. The Deputy President labelled the question as unfair, asserting that it detracts from his primary responsibility at this moment. “That question is a very unfair question… am I allowed to complain? It is an unfair question because I have just been entrusted with a very serious and grave national responsibility. What is weighing in my mind now is the desire to take charge of those obligations,” he stated.
Kindiki’s reluctance to engage in speculation about 2027 underscores his commitment to ensuring that the Kenya Kwanza government delivers on its campaign promises. He noted that his focus is on his current role as Deputy President, which involves overseeing the implementation of the administration’s policies and addressing national issues. “The desire of the people of Kenya and the President are so high. If I started occupying myself with ideas of what would happen then I would be the most unsuitable person to be seated before you here today,” he remarked.
The Deputy President also refrained from commenting on the challenges faced by his predecessor, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. KBC’s John Jacob Kioria rephrased Ngele’s original question, asking Kindiki to share lessons he had learned from Gachagua’s tenure, particularly following his impeachment. Kindiki chose not to engage in criticism of Gachagua, stating, “Leadership is defined by certain ethos and parameters and I want to persuade you to allow me not to discuss my brother Rigathi Gachagua because he is my friend and you have not heard me badmouth him anywhere before when he was in this office or even when he left office…so please spare me.” This response indicates Kindiki’s desire to maintain a positive and respectful relationship with Gachagua, despite the latter’s political challenges.
Kindiki’s refusal to compare himself to his predecessor reflects his reluctance to be drawn into negative narratives about the role of the Deputy President, especially given the historical context of previous office holders. “It is not right. It is wrong to start comparing myself with a predecessor or a person who would occupy the position in future,” he noted. His comments also serve to distance himself from the notion that the Deputy President’s office is a “curse,” a common perception in Kenyan politics, especially among politicians who have struggled to maintain favor with their Presidents.
In emphasizing his focus on the present, Kindiki sought to downplay concerns about the DP’s seat being a stepping stone to presidential power. “I do not believe any seat is cursed; I don’t think it is a priority to start thinking whether I will survive in this seat or not. As I have said, what is weighing in my mind is to ensure that the challenges I have been tasked with addressing are under control,” he explained.
Kindiki’s approach to handling these questions reflects a strategic political mindset, one that prioritizes governance over ambition. By refusing to engage in discussions about his future political plans, Kindiki has shown that he is focused on delivering results rather than getting entangled in speculative debates. His statements suggest a desire to maintain unity within the Kenya Kwanza coalition and avoid the pitfalls that have affected previous holders of his office.
As Kenya approaches the 2027 elections, Kindiki’s cautious stance on succession and focus on his current role will likely be a defining feature of his political strategy. By keeping his eyes firmly set on the present, he is positioning himself as a responsible leader committed to the long-term success of the Kenya Kwanza government and the country as a whole. Whether or not he will eventually pursue the presidency remains uncertain, but for now, Kindiki’s focus is on ensuring the success of the administration he serves.
