Former interior minister Kithure Kindiki has been sworn in as Kenya’s new deputy president, replacing Rigathi Gachagua who was impeached by parliament in October. After a series of legal challenges by Gachagua, Kindiki finally took his oath before the chief registrar in a ceremony attended by President William Ruto, diplomats, and over 100,000 people in Nairobi. The high court had initially put a hold on Kindiki’s inauguration due to legal challenges, but this was lifted on Thursday, citing the constitution’s requirement that the position of deputy president should not remain vacant. Kindiki’s nomination was confirmed by parliament on October 18.
President Ruto appointed former Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi as the new interior minister, replacing Kindiki in that role. Gachagua’s impeachment and the subsequent legal battles added to months of political turbulence in Kenya, which began with protests against tax hikes in June. In response to the protests, Ruto formed a unity government by adding opposition members to his cabinet, which helped ease tensions. Gachagua’s removal from office highlighted divisions within the governing United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and tensions between him and Ruto, as he had opposed government policies leading to his impeachment.
Gachagua, who had been a valuable running mate for Ruto during his election campaign, faced accusations of insubordination related to his opposition to government policies, such as forced evictions during heavy rains that resulted in flooding and deaths. Kindiki, who was also a top contender to be Ruto’s running mate in the upcoming 2022 election, was appointed to the interior ministry after the president took office in September. Before his appointment, Kindiki served as a senator from the Mount Kenya region, which is known for its significant voting population.
The legal challenges and political realignments in Kenya have underscored the volatility and divisions within the government and ruling party. Gachagua’s impeachment and Kindiki’s subsequent appointment have raised questions about the stability of the leadership in the country, especially leading up to the upcoming election. Ruto’s decision to form a unity government in response to the protests and tensions also reflects the need for political compromise and cooperation to address the challenges facing Kenya.
As Kindiki assumes his new role as deputy president, he faces the task of stepping into a position that has been marred by controversy and legal battles. His inauguration, attended by dignitaries and a large crowd, signals a new chapter in Kenya’s political landscape. The coming months leading up to the election will be crucial for the country as it navigates through political challenges and transitions. The impact of Gachagua’s impeachment and Kindiki’s appointment on the ruling party and government remains to be seen, but it is clear that Kenya is facing a period of uncertainty and change in its leadership.
