Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has appealed to Mt Kenya leaders to respect elders and promote unity in the region. He defended the decision of elders to endorse him as the region's political kingpin ahead of the 2027 General Election. Kindiki said communities with a shared history, interests, and aspirations should not be divided by political differences. He emphasized that elders, not politicians, form a community.
Kindiki revealed that the three gatherings in Meru, Embu, and Kiambu counties were initiated by elders. He stated that he was under strict instructions from elders to unite the Mt Kenya region and the country. The Deputy President spoke while inspecting road projects in Tharaka-Nithi County. He said the Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders asked him to wait for their directions as they engaged their colleagues.
The endorsement of Kindiki by elders took place at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County. Elders from the Meru, Embu, Mbeere, and Kikuyu communities attended the event. They mandated Kindiki to serve as their spokesperson and representative in advancing the interests and aspirations of the Mount Kenya Region. Kindiki is banking on the elders' endorsement to enhance the ruling party's support in Mt Kenya region amid growing opposition.
However, divisions have already emerged over who has the authority to speak for Mt Kenya. Some elders from the Agikuyu elders disowned Kindiki's coronation, while politicians opposed to President William Ruto's administration questioned the legitimacy of the process. The disagreements turned what was presented as a cultural gathering into another contest over the region's political leadership.
This is not the first time elders have bestowed such honors on a leader. In the past, similar honors have been bestowed on Jomo Kenyatta in 1947, Njenga Karume in 1978, Uhuru Kenyatta in 2012, Raila Odinga in 2020, and Justin Muturi in 2021. Kindiki has now received the honor twice in 2026, including his earlier elevation by the Njuri Ncheke in Meru.
Despite the endorsement, some leaders have dismissed the move. Kiama Kia Ma patron Kung'u Muigai described the Kirigiti declaration as null and void. Kikuyu Council of Elders chairman Wachira Kiago said his wing kept away from the ceremony. Juja MP George Koimburi described the gathering as a political circus.
Kindiki plans to begin meetings aimed at uniting Mt Kenya East and Mt Kenya West as instructed by elders. He will champion the interests of all communities in the Mt Kenya region. The Deputy President's efforts aim to promote unity and respect for elders in the region.
Key points
- Kindiki defends elders' endorsement, appeals for unity in Mt Kenya region.
- Divisions emerge over authority to speak for Mt Kenya.
- Kindiki plans to unite Mt Kenya East and West.
