Meru – President William Ruto has publicly thrown his full support behind Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, calling him an honest, capable leader and making it clear that he now feels he has the deputy he needs.
Speaking to a crowd in Meru, in the heart of Mt Kenya East, Ruto praised Kindiki’s grasp of national issues and his steady leadership style.
“I am very grateful to the people of this region for giving me this gentleman, Professor Kithure Kindiki,” the President said in Swahili. “Let me tell you, I now have a Deputy.”
The endorsement marks a clear shift in tone. While Ruto avoided direct mention of his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, the message was unmistakable. The President appeared keen to draw a contrast.
“He understands roads, electricity, and our SHA government plan. He is an honest man,” Ruto told the gathering.
Kindiki, a former Interior Cabinet Secretary and law professor, was appointed Deputy President earlier this year following a quiet but significant realignment in Ruto’s inner circle. His rise has come amid whispers of strained relations between the President and Gachagua, though neither has spoken publicly about the change in leadership.
On Monday, Ruto went further, crediting Kindiki with helping to move the Kenya Kwanza administration’s priorities forward.
“He supports our work in agriculture, infrastructure, education, health he works with the ministers and understands the government,” Ruto said. “I’m proud to have him by my side.”
The President also pointed to Kindiki’s calm temperament and broad national outlook.
“He is not bitter, angry, hateful or tribal. He knows he’s not just a Deputy for Meru he’s the Deputy for the Republic of Kenya,” Ruto said, drawing applause from the crowd.
The comments appear aimed at shoring up public confidence in the new deputy and cementing a message of unity, particularly in the politically influential Mt Kenya region. Kindiki, who hails from Tharaka-Nithi County, has remained largely low-profile since his elevation, focusing on policy rather than political rhetoric.
Political analysts say Ruto’s comments send a strong signal ahead of 2027, as he begins shaping his team for the next general election.
“Ruto is clearly repositioning,” said political analyst Wanjiru Gichuhi. “He’s making it known that Kindiki is not just a placeholder, but a trusted partner.”
Whether the public declaration will ease tensions within Kenya Kwanza’s ranks remains to be seen. But on Monday, the message from Meru was unmistakable: President Ruto has found the deputy he wants and he’s ready to move forward.
