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The Nairobian

Leaders mentioned in succession race rush to congratulate DP-elect Kindiki

Politics

By Brian Otieno | Oct 19, 2024

**Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, Governors Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga) and Irungu Kang’ata (Murang’a) are among politicians being touted to replace DP Gachagua.** [File, Standard]

Social media was yesterday awash with congratulatory messages for Deputy President-elect Prof Kithure Kindiki following his nomination and approval to the high office.

There was anticipation following the Senate’s decision to uphold impeachment charges against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. It was clear that the new DP would be announced yesterday as the National Assembly had planned a sitting.

Many had predicted that Prof Kindiki, the outgoing Interior Cabinet Secretary, would bag the coveted position despite the competition and intense lobbying.

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As National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula kept lawmakers waiting on the nominee’s name, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru broke the news.

“My brother Professor Kindiki Kithure, my sincere congratulations. To you, history has placed an honour and responsibility accorded to only a few. May God guide you and HE William Ruto as you lead this great country to achieve its tremendous potential. To those who supported me in this position, I thank you. We must now dedicate our efforts to building a better Kenya under the leadership of HE William Samoei Ruto and HE Abraham Kithure Kindiki,” Waiguru, who had been interested in succeeding Gachagua, posted on X.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, another potential DP, had kind words for a man he had supervised.

“I share in the President’s confidence that Prof Kindiki has diligently served as Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Administration of National Government. He has steadfastly supported the President and the Kenya Kwanza Administration...,” said Mudavadi.

Ahead of yesterday’s announcement, the DP race had shaped up to be between Kindiki and Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata. Kang’ata would also concede, wishing the DP in waiting well. “You deserved the position and please serve with zeal. Service to mankind is service to God,” said Kang’ata.

Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika was also considered a competitor and she said she had full faith in Kindiki’s abilities to excel.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, another DP hopeful, registered confidence that would “serve all Kenyans without fear or favour.”

Eldas MP Adan Keynan said Kindiki’s nomination was well-deserved.

National Assembly Leader of Majority Kimani Ichung’wah urged the soon-to-be DP to “bring the country together under one flag and move the nation forward”.

“Let the spirit of patriotism, inclusivity, and hard work guide you in this important assignment as we build a brighter future for our beloved country.”

Kindiki’s colleagues in the Cabinet also congratulated him.

“I have full trust in your leadership, alongside President William Ruto, to guide our country towards a prosperous future. Best wishes as you take on this important role” said Environment CS Aden Duale.