The impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sent political tremors through Kenya’s Mt Kenya region, with ripple effects that could impact President William Ruto’s administration and 2027 re-election strategy. In Gachagua’s absence, the spotlight now shifts to Kithure Kindiki, the recently appointed Deputy President-designate, who has been entrusted with rallying the region’s support for Ruto’s agenda. As a respected yet distinct political figure from Tharaka Nithi, Kindiki’s appointment has opened a new chapter for the politically influential Mt Kenya East. But with divided allegiances and brewing discontent, especially from Gachagua’s Mt Kenya West supporters, Kindiki’s leadership faces formidable challenges.
The Rise of Kindiki: Mt Kenya’s East-West Divide
The Mt Kenya region has long been a powerhouse in Kenyan politics, holding substantial influence in the country’s electoral outcomes. Historically, political heavyweights from Mt Kenya West spanning Nyeri, Kiambu, Murang’a, and Laikipia have led the charge, including past presidents Jomo Kenyatta, Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta. The rise of Kindiki from Mt Kenya East has triggered mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a welcomed representation of the region’s diversity, while others perceive it as a move that dilutes the political influence of Mt Kenya West.
Rigathi Gachagua, a staunch advocate for Mt Kenya West and a visible, sometimes polarizing, figure in Kenyan politics, was a trusted ally in Ruto’s campaign and a key player in galvanizing votes from this region. Gachagua’s ability to connect with his base and position himself as the “Mountain’s kingpin” has left a significant gap, with many in Mt Kenya West interpreting his impeachment as a betrayal by the President. Kindiki, who hails from Tharaka Nithi in Mt Kenya East, now inherits this complex task of uniting a region divided by historical rivalries and recent political dynamics.
A Gentlemanly Successor to a Fiery Predecessor
Kithure Kindiki, a soft-spoken legal scholar and former senator, contrasts sharply with the outspoken and combative Gachagua. Kindiki’s career has been marked by a steady rise through the ranks of Kenyan politics, beginning with his election as Tharaka Nithi senator in 2013, where he gained a reputation for fairness, decisiveness, and efficiency. Unlike Gachagua, who has a populist style and appeals to grassroots support, Kindiki is often described as a diplomat who has crafted a more nationalistic appeal.
While Kindiki’s measured approach and widespread respect in Mt Kenya East have earned him the endorsement of over 40 MPs from the region, this endorsement may not suffice to appease the grievances of Mt Kenya West. Political analyst and High Court advocate Elias Mutuma underscores Kindiki’s potential as a unifier, noting that his statesmanlike demeanor and approachable style could help bridge the regional divide. “Kindiki is widely acceptable, even outside Mt Kenya because of his stature and demeanour. He is a likeable character,” said Mutuma, who believes Kindiki’s strength lies in his ability to foster constructive dialogue.
However, others, like University of Nairobi lecturer Herman Manyora, have expressed doubts about Kindiki’s ability to match Gachagua’s populist appeal and mobilize the broader Mt Kenya electorate. Manyora describes Kindiki as a “flower girl” in the administration, implying that he may lack the political clout to fill Gachagua’s shoes. “He has to prove it, but for now he does not appear to have that character and ability to consolidate Mt Kenya East, let alone the entire region,” Manyora opined. The professor’s remarks highlight the perception that Kindiki, despite his legal acumen and administrative capabilities, may struggle to counter the skepticism and disappointment that Ruto’s decision has stirred in Mt Kenya West.
Discontent in Mt Kenya: Gachagua’s Legacy and Lingering Resentment
The reaction to Gachagua’s removal from office has been far from subdued, with several leaders and residents of Mt Kenya West vowing to reject Ruto in 2027. Murang’a Senator Joseph Nyutu encapsulated the sentiments of many, stating, “For us, divorcing Rigathi is divorcing the whole Mountain.” This reaction signals an underlying resentment among Mt Kenya West residents, who feel that Gachagua’s dismissal undermines their representation in Ruto’s government.
Gachagua himself has fueled this narrative, suggesting that his removal is part of a scheme to weaken Mt Kenya’s political influence. In his farewell remarks, he compared the situation to former President Moi’s tactics in the 1980s, where divisions were allegedly fostered within Central Kenya to dilute its influence. These claims resonate with older political tensions, stirring a sense of betrayal and heightening the challenge for Kindiki, who must now balance placating the aggrieved Mt Kenya West base with advancing the President’s agenda.
Kindiki’s Path to Consolidation: Leveraging Development and Political Acumen
One potential advantage for Kindiki is his ability to capitalize on development promises in Mt Kenya East, an area that has often felt marginalized in Kenya’s national politics. By securing tangible development initiatives, Kindiki could establish himself as a pragmatic leader, shifting the focus from past political disputes to future opportunities. “As a region, we have come of age and will now focus on development affecting our people,” Kindiki’s allies in Mt Kenya East have stated, signaling their intent to pursue economic empowerment and regional development as key strategies.
As Deputy President-designate, Kindiki has the added responsibility of overseeing national security and political stability, both critical elements in establishing his credibility and leadership in Mt Kenya. His tenure as Interior Cabinet Secretary, where he dealt with issues like terrorism and civil unrest, demonstrated his ability to handle high-stakes challenges. However, his response to recent Gen Z protests, which resulted in casualties, attracted significant criticism from human rights organizations. While his supporters view his actions as a testament to his commitment to order, these incidents have tainted his public image, creating yet another hurdle in consolidating his base.
The 2027 Equation: Balancing Unity and Resentment
For Kindiki, the journey toward 2027 is as much about maintaining unity within Mt Kenya as it is about proving his political mettle on the national stage. President Ruto’s administration is grappling with growing frustrations over high living costs, taxation, and unmet economic expectations, all of which compound the grievances Kindiki must address. The ongoing economic issues underscore the need for a more people-centered approach, one that recognizes and alleviates the everyday struggles of Mt Kenya residents.
Whether Kindiki can rise above these challenges may ultimately depend on his ability to forge a new narrative, one that transcends the traditional West-East divide and focuses on shared goals for the entire region. This approach will require engagement with Mt Kenya’s local leaders and addressing regional disparities through a concrete development agenda.
Conclusion: An Uncertain Road Ahead
Kithure Kindiki’s appointment represents both a historic first for Mt Kenya East and a calculated gamble for President Ruto, whose 2027 re-election campaign hinges on Kindiki’s success in consolidating support in Mt Kenya. Kindiki’s journey will undoubtedly be complex, as he navigates the intricate dynamics of a divided region, manages a restive populace, and counters the lingering influence of his predecessor. His challenge goes beyond uniting a fractious constituency it’s about crafting a vision for Mt Kenya that aligns with Ruto’s national agenda while honoring the region’s unique political and economic identity.
As 2027 draws closer, Kindiki’s ability to mobilize the region could serve as a testament to his leadership and the strength of his alliances. Should he succeed, he may redefine Mt Kenya’s role in Kenyan politics, transforming it from a fragmented stronghold into a united front with a shared stake in Kenya’s future. But should he falter, the consequences could be far-reaching, both for his political career and for Ruto’s hopes of securing a second term. For now, Kindiki’s test as the new face of Mt Kenya begins, with the weight of an entire region’s expectations on his shoulders.
