Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has strongly affirmed his unwavering loyalty to President William Ruto, addressing critics who have suggested he challenge his boss on some of the government’s unpopular policies. Speaking to a delegation from Tharaka Nithi County in Nairobi, Kindiki dismissed calls for rebellion within the administration, emphasizing that a government official cannot “sabotage” the administration they are part of.
“I cannot oppose the President. If people are looking for someone to challenge him, they are looking in the wrong direction,” Kindiki asserted. He went on to highlight that true leadership is not about merely echoing the public’s dissent but about guiding the nation through solutions, even when such leadership may be unpopular. “Leadership is not about shouting but showing direction to the citizens and offering solutions,” he added.
Kindiki also took time to reflect on the leadership of the late President Mwai Kibaki, noting the early struggles his administration faced. Kibaki’s first term, which was marked by economic challenges and political turbulence, included the dissolution of his Cabinet and the loss of a critical referendum. Despite these setbacks, Kibaki is remembered as one of the most consequential leaders in Kenya’s history, according to Kindiki.
Drawing parallels, Kindiki argued that President Ruto, despite facing similar challenges, has achieved more in his first two years in office than Kibaki did in his first five years. “What President Ruto has done in two years, it took Kibaki five years,” Kindiki said, reiterating that Ruto is on the right path toward improving the Kenyan economy.
Kindiki’s comments come amidst internal divisions within the government. His predecessor, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached in October, has been vocal in criticizing Ruto’s leadership style. Gachagua described Ruto’s administration as a “one-man show” and accused the President of being “intolerant” and “dictatorial.” According to Gachagua, many ministers in the administration are mere “flower girls,” with no voice to oppose the President’s decisions.
“It’s a praise-and-worship choir, and I could not fit in it,” Gachagua lamented, referencing the lack of dissent within Ruto’s government, especially over contentious policies like tax hikes, which sparked nationwide protests.
Despite the criticisms, Kindiki’s stance is clear: true leadership requires steadfastness, even when faced with challenges. He urged Kenyans to give Ruto time to deliver, asserting that transformational leadership often requires a long-term view beyond immediate popularity. As Ruto’s administration navigates through turbulent waters, Kindiki’s call for patience underscores the belief in the President’s vision for Kenya’s future.
