Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has questioned the political standing of his successor Kithure Kindiki, casting doubt on his influence in the Mt Kenya region and his chances of being retained as President William Ruto’s running mate in the next general election.
Speaking on Wednesday night, July 22, Gachagua delivered a sharp assessment of Kindiki’s position within the Kenya Kwanza administration, while also reflecting on his own removal from office.
His remarks signal deepening political rifts within the ruling coalition as succession politics begin to take shape ahead of 2027.
“Much as he (Kindiki) snatched my position that I had been given by the people through the election, I would never want him to go through what I went through. It was very dehumanising. I can tell you that he will not be the running mate,” Gachagua said.
The former deputy president, who has recently positioned himself as a key political voice in the Mt Kenya region, suggested that Kindiki lacks grassroots backing and remains politically vulnerable despite holding the country’s second-highest office.
“As far as the political pecking order is concerned, he (Kindiki) is nowhere in the mountain. He is just another employee of William Ruto. Ruto can dismiss him at will,” he added.
Gachagua’s remarks come amid growing debate over the political direction of the Mt Kenya region, which played a decisive role in Ruto’s 2022 electoral victory.
Kindiki, who assumed office following Gachagua’s exit, has maintained a relatively low political profile, focusing largely on government coordination and policy implementation.
However, his critics argue that his technocratic approach may limit his appeal in a region where political mobilisation remains key.
Gachagua’s comments also highlight underlying tensions within the Kenya Kwanza alliance, particularly on questions of loyalty, succession, and regional influence. While the president has not publicly addressed the claims, the remarks are likely to fuel speculation over potential realignments within the coalition.