Ruto Picks Trusted Ally Kithure Kindiki as New Deputy President.

Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and National Administration Kithure Kindiki speaks during a joint press conference, with British Minister of State for Security Tom. Courtesy image.

Nairobi, Kenya – Kithure Kindiki, the interior minister who became a central figure in the Kenyan government’s response to anti-tax protests earlier this year, has been approved by parliament as the country’s next deputy president.

His nomination follows the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua, which unfolded in a series of high-stakes votes in the Senate on Thursday.

The 52-year-old Kindiki, a former law professor, has served as President William Ruto’s interior minister for the past two years, overseeing the security forces during some of the most contentious demonstrations in Kenya’s recent history.

Controversial Response to Anti-Tax Protests

Kindiki was at the forefront of managing the government’s crackdown on protests that erupted in June 2024, triggered by public outrage over new tax policies. These demonstrations led to clashes between protesters and police, resulting in the deaths of more than 40 people and injuries to at least 300 others.

Despite public outcry and criticism from human rights groups, Kindiki defended the police’s actions, praising them for exercising “restraint” and denying allegations that the government issued shoot-to-kill orders. However, his stance sparked widespread anger, with activists demanding justice for those killed and an investigation into reports of mysterious abductions during the protests.

A Close Ally of President Ruto

Kindiki’s handling of the protests cemented his position as a loyal ally to President Ruto, helping him retain his ministerial post amid a reshuffle of government officials. His close relationship with Ruto dates back to over a decade ago, when Kindiki served as the president’s lawyer during proceedings at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Ruto had been charged with crimes against humanity following the post-election violence of 2007, in which more than 1,200 people were killed. Although the case was eventually dismissed due to insufficient evidence, prosecutors claimed that witnesses had been intimidated.

Political Career and Academic Credentials

Kindiki’s political journey began in 2013 when he was elected senator for Tharaka-Nithi County. He quickly rose to prominence, serving as the Senate majority leader for five years. After his re-election in 2017, he became the deputy speaker of the Senate, but his tenure was cut short in 2020 when he was removed in a purge targeting Ruto’s allies.

With Ruto’s victory in the 2022 presidential election, Kindiki was appointed to the cabinet as interior minister. In addition to his political career, he has had an extensive academic background, holding a master’s degree and a PhD from the University of Pretoria in South Africa. He has published over 30 works, including books and peer-reviewed articles on public policy, governance, and constitutional affairs.

Regional Influence and Political Stability

Kindiki, like his predecessor Gachagua, hails from the Mount Kenya region, a key political base for Ruto’s administration. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to solidify support in the area, ensuring regional stability in the wake of Gachagua’s ouster.

Known for his polished public speaking style and always appearing neatly dressed with a close-cropped haircut, Kindiki brings not only political experience but also expertise in public administration and legal affairs to his new role as deputy president.

With his appointment now official, Kindiki will play a crucial role in shaping the government’s policies and maintaining political cohesion as Kenya navigates its social and economic challenges.

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