Kindiki signals bid to retain Deputy President slot in Ruto’s 2027 re-election plan

Nairobi, Kenya - Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has signaled his intent to retain his position as second-in-command under President William Ruto if the Kenya Kwanza administration secures a second term in the 2027 General Election. Speaking to newly elected United Democratic Alliance (UDA) grassroots officials, Kindiki expressed his confidence in maintaining his role, asserting that he would defend his position and could not be removed from the Deputy Presidency.

He questioned the possibility of anyone ousting him from the position, stating, "I, the fireman, and now, by the grace of God, the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya. Do you think there is anybody who can remove me from this seat and chase me away like a fool?" Kindiki's remarks may spark debate within the coalition regarding who would occupy the Deputy President's position should Ruto be re-elected.

While Kindiki did not explicitly confirm Ruto's choice, his statements suggest he views his current role as one he intends to defend and retain, potentially to counter political rivals questioning his tenure and ability to withstand the competitive politics surrounding the 2027 succession. Kindiki contrasted his position with the challenges faced by President Ruto during Uhuru Kenyatta's administration, recalling attempts to remove Ruto from the Deputy Presidency but ultimately his survival due to his extensive political networks.

The Deputy President's comments come amid a shifting 2027 political landscape, with rival factions positioning themselves for key roles in the upcoming administration. Kindiki has recently increased his political efforts, particularly in the Mount Kenya region, aiming to solidify his standing within the region and the Kenya Kwanza administration.

His appointment as Deputy President came in October 2024, following the impeachment of his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, who has since emerged as a critic of the Ruto administration and seeks to build a new political alliance ahead of the 2027 election. Kindiki has positioned himself as a loyal supporter of Ruto's administration, defending its achievements and attacking those advocating for a leadership change in 2027.

He emphasized that the administration's record should not be judged based on political rhetoric or personal attacks, urging UDA members to highlight the government's achievements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and agriculture when seeking a second term. Kindiki urged UDA members to support the "two-term agenda," indicating that President Ruto should serve two terms if voters approve.

Kindiki's statements are crucial as the question of Ruto's running mate in 2027 is expected to be a contentious issue within the governing coalition. The 2022 arrangement that saw Ruto run with Gachagua was altered when Gachagua was removed, introducing a new succession equation with Kindiki now as the potential replacement. By asserting his desire to defend his position, Kindiki sets the stage for a heated contest over the 2027 Kenya Kwanza ticket composition, with the final decision still uncertain as the election approaches.