Ruto nominates Kithure Kindiki for the DP seat.

President William Ruto has nominated Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as the next Deputy President following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua Thursday night.

Kindiki’s name has been submitted to the National Assembly where MPs are expected to vote on it.

Speaker Moses Wetang’ula announced the appointment during a special sitting meeting that was convened on Friday.

“I have received a message from the president on the nomination of Professor Kithure Kindiki to fill the vacancy in the office of the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya,” Wetang’ula announced.

The Constitution states that once the president submits a nomination to the National Assembly, MPs shall vote to reject or endorse the nominee.

There is no requirement for a two-thirds majority. Once approved, the nominee will be sworn into office.

Kindiki has been serving as the Interior CS for approximately two years. Previously, he served as the Senator for Tharaka Nithi County for two terms, which amounts to 10 years.

In the lead-up to the 2022 general elections, Kindiki was considered a top contender to become Ruto’s running mate. However, he eventually settled on Gachagua.

Kindiki later explained that he chose Gachagua because of their shared age and understanding.

During Gachagua’s impeachment proceedings, there was speculation about Kindiki being the next in line to replace him on many fronts.

Opinion leaders and polls also indicated Kindiki as the favoured choice for Deputy President in the event of Gachagua’s successful ouster.

Kindiki also garnered endorsements from at least 69 elected leaders from the larger Mt. Kenya region to be their link with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Additionally, endorsements came from Members of County Assemblies and the youth, among others.

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