Kithure Kindiki has been officially sworn in as Kenya’s new Deputy President following a protracted legal battle that delayed his inauguration.
The High Court lifted a stay order that had barred his swearing-in due to over 30 legal challenges filed by his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached by the Senate in October on serious charges, including corruption and incitement to ethnic hatred—allegations Gachagua has vehemently denied, labeling them as politically motivated.
The court’s decision underscores the constitutional mandate that the deputy president’s position must not remain vacant.
Gachagua’s attempts to contest his impeachment had extended a period of political instability in Kenya, particularly after widespread protests erupted in June against unpopular tax hikes.
This unrest prompted President William Ruto to invite members of the opposition into his cabinet in a bid to create a “unity government.”
This political realignment effectively sidelined Gachagua, who played a crucial role in the Ruto campaign by mobilizing significant support from the Mount Kenya region.
However, relations between Ruto and Gachagua have since soured, with Ruto emphasizing the need for national cohesion and urging an end to tribalism.
During Kindiki’s swearing-in ceremony, President Ruto tasked him with serving all Kenyans equally, irrespective of their political affiliations, reminding the new deputy that “the government of Kenya equally belongs to all the people.”
Kindiki, who was a key figure in Ruto’s successful 2022 election campaign and previously served as the interior minister, steps into his new role during a time of significant political transition in the country.
