President Ruto Picks Kindiki to Replace Impeached Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua

President William Ruto has submitted the name of Interior Cabinet Secretary, Professor Kithure Kindiki, to the National Assembly as his nominee to replace Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached by the Senate on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula announced that President Ruto had officially nominated Kindiki to serve as the new Deputy President. Notably, Kindiki had previously been a top contender for the running mate position before Ruto selected Gachagua. At that time, Gachagua’s grassroots support and financial strength were decisive factors, even though Kindiki had backing from a majority of Mt. Kenya politicians.

Kindiki’s appointment comes at a politically sensitive moment following Gachagua’s historic ouster. This shift places added pressure on President Ruto, as he now faces the challenge of regaining public trust and proving the Kenya Kwanza government’s ability to fulfill its campaign promises amidst growing political uncertainty.