Kithure Kindiki has rejected claims that his position as Kenya’s second-in-command is at risk. He spoke directly to supporters in Meru, insisting he remains firmly in charge and in control.
Kindiki told the crowd to ignore rumors suggesting opponents want to unseat him before the 2027 general election. He said such claims were baseless and only served to create unnecessary panic among supporters.
He spoke in local markets, saying people should relax and not worry about small political noise. He added that political opponents spread talk for attention, but it should not disturb citizens.
Kindiki warned that he knows the government hierarchy and is fully aware of his authority. He asked those spreading claims if they understood that he holds the number two seat in the government.
He urged calm among supporters and insisted there is no reason to panic over minor political comments. He told them that political rumors are common and should not affect everyday life.
Kindiki made it clear that the deputy president seat cannot be taken away. He emphasized that the office belongs to him and no one can remove him while he serves.
He concluded his remarks with a firm declaration that his camp will continue to move forward. He said the government’s work will continue and there will be no backward steps.
ODM Push for Deputy President Slot
The remarks came amid calls from Orange Democratic Movement for the deputy president position in any coalition arrangement ahead of 2027. Party leaders have openly declared interest in securing the slot as part of coalition negotiations with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance.
ODM leaders claim that their nationwide support entitles them to the deputy president seat in a coalition government. Oburu Odinga said the party will target the position strongly and expects formal negotiations.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga echoed the call, stressing that ODM has sat in opposition for 20 years. She said the party wants either full government control or inclusion in the coalition forming the next government.
ODM’s push has caused political tension within the broad-based government. Leaders in the current administration are responding firmly to insist the deputy president seat is non-negotiable.
Kindiki’s Allies Defend His Position
Kindiki’s allies have openly supported him. Maragua MP Mary Wamaua Waithera said the deputy president seat cannot be taken from him. She reminded the public that Kindiki occupies the number two position in government.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku also rejected ODM’s claims. He said Kindiki is the current deputy president and will remain so until 2032. He joked that ODM can only get the position after Kindiki becomes president.
Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki described ODM’s bid as unrealistic. He cited parliamentary numbers to stress that the deputy president seat is non-negotiable despite coalition arrangements.
Kiambaa MP Njuguna Kawanjiku told ODM leaders to relax. He said no matter what ODM does, the government will not release the deputy president seat.
Political Noise and Public Reactions
Kindiki’s statements come after similar reassurances on February 14. He told supporters that political noise and rumors are distractions and should be ignored. He emphasized that his camp knows when and how to act politically.
ODM’s push has led to public debates and rival statements. On February 15, Nyali MP Mohamed Ali, also known as Jicho Pevu, mocked rival deputy president bids. He warned those claiming the seat that Kindiki’s position cannot be challenged easily.
The controversy highlights rising tensions within Kenyan politics ahead of 2027. Coalition arrangements, party negotiations, and political ambitions are creating public disagreements over positions.
Kindiki warned supporters not to be distracted by political gossip. He said that small claims should not interfere with government work or public confidence in leadership.
He reassured the public that the deputy president seat is secure under his tenure. He said his team will continue governance and pursue national development without interruption.
ODM leaders continue to push for the deputy president slot through public statements. Kindiki and his allies have repeatedly dismissed these demands as unrealistic and unnecessary.
The political debate is expected to continue until formal negotiations take place. Both ODM and UDA supporters are closely watching coalition discussions ahead of the 2027 election.
Kindiki’s firm statements aim to quell uncertainty among supporters. He reinforced that no rumors or rival claims will affect his position in government.
Public reactions vary, but most leaders in the coalition maintain that the seat is non-negotiable. The dispute underscores the high stakes of coalition politics and leadership ambitions in Kenya.
Observers say the deputy president seat issue could influence coalition deals in 2027. It remains a central topic as parties negotiate positions and share power.
Kindiki’s repeated assurances suggest he intends to end speculation. He stressed that moving forward, his focus remains on governance, stability, and leadership continuity.
The dispute between ODM and Kindiki’s allies reflects broader coalition dynamics. Political strategies and negotiations will determine how positions are shared or defended in the coming years.
Both sides continue to make public statements defending their claims. The debate over the deputy president seat remains a key talking point across Kenya’s political landscape.
Kindiki concluded by telling supporters there will be no backward steps. He said his camp will move forward and remain in control of the deputy president office.
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