Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has emphasized the importance of prioritizing development and unity in Kenya. Speaking at Gaciongo Market in Tharaka Constituency on September 21, 2026, Kindiki defended the Kenya Kwanza administration's development record. He challenged political rivals to account for their own time in government. Kindiki's remarks came as he inspected ongoing development projects in Tharaka Nithi County.
Kindiki highlighted the government's focus on infrastructure development in Tharaka Nithi. He cited several roads under construction or planned for upgrading, including the Chaka-Riga-Marimanti-Gatunga road. The Deputy President said local contractors were being given opportunities to undertake public projects. He insisted that contractors should employ young people from the areas where they operate.
The Deputy President expressed pride in seeing local Kenyan contractors getting contracts to construct public infrastructure. He wants them to do a good job to avoid giving road contracts to foreign companies. Kindiki also directed that the construction of Thingithu Bridge should be prioritized due to safety concerns. He assured residents that no road would be left behind, but patience was needed as the government cannot do everything at once.
Water emerged as another major concern in the region. Kindiki said limited resources had previously forced him to spread water projects across different parts of the county. He pledged that the government would intensify efforts to address water shortages. Kindiki vowed to explore every possible measure to eradicate water challenges in Tharaka Nithi.
Kindiki's development message was closely intertwined with politics. He challenged leaders seeking national office to present their development records rather than rely on personal attacks or political slogans. The Deputy President questioned Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka over development in areas associated with him. Kindiki said politicians should demonstrate what they achieved before seeking higher office.
Kindiki addressed the growing debate over political unity in the Mount Kenya region. He defended the decision by over 30,000 elders from Gikuyu, Embu, Mbeere, and Meru communities to endorse him to spearhead regional unity, reconciliation, and development. The endorsement followed months of political debate over whether Mount Kenya should remain united or develop separate political identities.
Kindiki said he had accepted the mandate given to him by the elders to promote unity and development. He added that he had forgiven those who had insulted him and would not respond in kind. The Deputy President urged Kalonzo not to adopt a confrontational style, describing him as a gentleman.
Key points
- Kindiki emphasizes the importance of prioritizing development and unity in Kenya.
- The Deputy President challenges rivals to account for their time in government.
- Kindiki defends the elders' decision to endorse him for regional unity and development.
