Kenyan President, William Ruto has nominated Interior Minister, Kithure Kindiki as the new Deputy President, following the Senate’s decision to impeach former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua.
Speaker, Moses Wetang’ula confirmed the nomination in parliament on Friday, stating, “I have received a message from the president regarding the nomination of Professor Kithure Kindiki to fill the vacancy in the office.
Gachagua, who had denied all charges against him during his impeachment, played a significant role in Ruto’s 2022 election victory, helping secure votes from central Kenya. However, reports have emerged in recent months of a rift between Gachagua and Ruto, leading to political tension and a shift in alliances.
Kindiki, a close ally of Ruto, has served as Interior Minister throughout Ruto’s presidency and was previously a senator for Tharaka Nithi County. He was also considered a top contender for Ruto’s running mate in the 2022 elections.
Parliament will need to approve Kindiki’s nomination before he can be sworn in as Deputy President.
