Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has broken his silence over claims that he disrespected Cabinet Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development, Geoffrey Ruku. In a strongly worded statement, Kindiki dismissed the allegations as “desperate, mischievous and utterly malicious.”
The controversy began after a speech by Kindiki was widely circulated and interpreted by some as a veiled attack on CS Ruku. However, the Deputy President insists that his comments were not directed at Ruku, a long-time friend and political ally.
“Seen a desperate, mischievous and utterly malicious twist insinuating that I lectured and disrespected my neighbour CS Geoffrey Ruku, my friend for years. FALSEHOOD is cheap,” Kindiki stated.
He went on to clarify that his remarks were aimed at a former Cabinet Secretary from the same region, along with other former leaders, and were meant to underscore the importance of collective responsibility within government.
“My remark being discussed referred to a former Cabinet Secretary from the same area and other ex-leaders who manifested similar conduct, to affirm that governments worldwide operate on the principle of collective responsibility.”
A Call for Discipline and Unity in Government
Kindiki emphasized that all government officials, regardless of their rank, are expected to uphold government policies and decisions. He described any attempt to undermine the government from within as not only illegal but also harmful to the public.
“If you are in government, you are bound by government policy, decisions and actions. If you are in government and you want it to do something for the people, you use your position in the same to influence the desired action.”
The Deputy President added that it is the role of the opposition—not government insiders—to question or critique the administration.
“Pretending to be ‘clever’ by undermining a government that you are a senior part of is illegal and anti-people. It is for the opposition to oppose, criticize and correct the government. NI HAYO TU KWA SASA.”
Decades-Long Friendship with CS Ruku
Kindiki and Ruku share a long-standing political and personal relationship that spans years. According to insiders, their bond goes beyond party politics and is rooted in mutual respect and collaboration.
This friendship was notably evident during Kindiki’s surprise visit to Mbeere North, which coincided with the announcement of Ruku’s appointment to the Cabinet. The visit was widely interpreted as a gesture of goodwill and support, further cementing their alliance.
The recent social media uproar, therefore, took many by surprise, as it seemed to contradict the well-documented relationship between the two leaders.
Mt. Kenya East Power Shift
The political dynamics within the Mt. Kenya East region have significantly changed in recent years, with Kindiki rising as a formidable leader. In 2024, Members of Parliament from the region publicly endorsed him as their political torchbearer, challenging the influence of other high-ranking leaders from the larger Mt. Kenya region.
This endorsement was seen as a shift in power and a sign of the region’s confidence in Kindiki’s leadership and ability to represent their interests at the national level.
Since then, Kindiki has solidified his position, becoming an influential voice in national politics and a central figure in the Kenya Kwanza administration.
A Busy Deputy President
Since taking office on November 1, 2024, Kindiki has been actively involved in projects across various counties. From infrastructure development to healthcare inspections and community meetings, he has made clear his intention to serve not just as a ceremonial Deputy President but as a hands-on leader.
Earlier this year, Kindiki hosted over 10,000 grassroots leaders at his rural home in Irunduni. During the event, he called on Mt. Kenya East leaders and residents to rally behind the government’s development agenda and avoid divisive politics.
He assured them of continued support and emphasized that their unity would translate into more government attention and resources being directed to the region.
Leadership Rooted in Principle
The Deputy President’s recent statement also reflects his continued stance on leadership discipline and accountability. His emphasis on collective responsibility echoes the expectations set in most democratic systems, where Cabinet members speak with one voice and take shared responsibility for decisions made by the executive.
Kindiki’s approach shows that he expects the same level of commitment and discipline from other government officials. He is keen to draw a line between constructive criticism and internal sabotage, warning those within government who try to play both sides.
Political Implications
The Deputy President’s remarks come at a time when tensions appear to be brewing within different factions of the ruling coalition. While some leaders are increasingly taking public stances that seem to challenge government policies, Kindiki’s latest statement serves as a clear warning: internal dissent will not be tolerated.
By strongly defending his position and reiterating his respect for CS Ruku, Kindiki appears to be reasserting his authority and distancing himself from any claims of factionalism within the Cabinet.
Final Word
As politics in the Kenya Kwanza administration continue to evolve, the Deputy President’s message reinforces the importance of loyalty, unity, and a clear commitment to the government’s agenda. Whether his warning will be heeded by other leaders remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Kindiki is determined to maintain discipline and collective accountability at the top level of government.
