During a recent media roundtable on Thursday, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki addressed his relationship with his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua for the first time, asserting that it remains strong and unchanged. His comments provided a rare glimpse into the dynamics between the current and former occupants of the second-highest office in Kenya, amidst ongoing political discourse and speculation.
Continuity and Friendship
Kindiki, who was appointed as Deputy President following the impeachment of Gachagua, made it clear that their friendship and professional relationship have not been affected by the transition. “Our relationship is the same as it was,” Kindiki stated confidently, during the media interaction. “We’re good people, good friends.” This sentiment underscores the importance of maintaining personal and professional ties even amidst the shifting political landscape in Kenya.
The Deputy President’s remarks came in response to questions about the lessons he has learned from Gachagua’s term in office. Kindiki, choosing his words carefully, refrained from discussing his predecessor in detail, opting instead to emphasize his own vision and approach. “Allow me not to discuss my brother Rigathi Gachagua,” Kindiki said. “It is wrong to start comparing myself with the person who occupied this office.” This cautious stance reflects the sensitivity of the political relationship and the need to forge his own path without undue comparison to his predecessor.
The Constitution and Governance
One of the key issues addressed during the media roundtable was the impeachment process of Gachagua, which involved all three arms of government: the Executive, Parliament, and the Judiciary. Kindiki responded to queries on whether the process was flawed by asserting, “The process involved three arms of government, and I see no problem with it.” He emphasized that any issues with the process could be addressed through constitutional mechanisms, reinforcing his belief in the robustness and fairness of the system.
Kindiki’s comments reflect a commitment to upholding constitutional processes and avoiding unnecessary political tension. He noted, “If there is a problem, there is a clear constitutional process to make corrections to that.” This approach highlights Kindiki’s understanding of the complexities involved in governance and his emphasis on the rule of law as a guiding principle.
Regrets and Aspirations
When questioned about any regrets taking on the role of Deputy President, Kindiki was unequivocal in his response. “I have no regrets whatsoever,” he said firmly. His confidence and conviction were evident as he described his role as a tireless public servant dedicated to national leadership and cohesion. This unwavering commitment to the position was further emphasized by President William Ruto, who appointed Kindiki following Gachagua’s impeachment. Ruto had highlighted Kindiki’s patriotism and dedication to national unity as key reasons for the appointment.
Ruto’s choice of Kindiki was not without significance. As the former Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kindiki brought a wealth of experience in security and governance to the role of Deputy President. His background in administration and commitment to national unity were seen as crucial in a political landscape that often requires careful balancing between regional interests and national cohesion.
Looking Ahead
As Deputy President, Kindiki has taken on a role that requires not only administrative competence but also the ability to navigate complex political waters. His approach to maintaining relations with Gachagua, despite their differing paths, illustrates a pragmatic and mature approach to politics. By focusing on national issues rather than personal comparisons, Kindiki is positioning himself as a leader who can bridge divides and focus on the broader goal of national development and unity.
In conclusion, Kithure Kindiki’s comments during the media roundtable serve as a reminder of the importance of friendship and professional relationships in politics. His insistence on not comparing himself with Gachagua reflects a desire to forge his own legacy and approach to leadership. As Kenya looks to the future, Kindiki’s role as Deputy President will likely continue to be shaped by his commitment to the rule of law, national cohesion, and the pursuit of inclusive governance.