Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has stated that he has accepted a mandate from Mount Kenya elders to promote unity across the region and support development ahead of the 2027 General Election. Speaking in Tharaka Nithi County on Monday, Kindiki emphasized the crucial role elders play in safeguarding the region's unity, citing their lack of electoral interests. He highlighted that elders are better positioned to ensure peace for all generations of the community.
Calls for unity across the Mount Kenya region are gaining momentum as the region debates who should speak for its communities ahead of the 2027 General Election. Kindiki's remarks came two days after a section of Mount Kenya elders endorsed him as the region's spokesperson and representative at a gathering at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County. The elders expressed their desire to preserve unity among the Agikuyu, Ameru, Embu, and Mbeere communities.
Kindiki has urged his critics to take their concerns to the elders rather than engage in personal attacks. He emphasized the importance of respecting elders and encouraged those with issues to seek out the elders and discuss them. Kindiki also stated that he had forgiven those who had insulted him and would focus on development, unity, and supporting the government. His critics, including allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, have dismissed the endorsement.
Gachagua dismissed the elders who backed Kindiki as "fake" and criticized the endorsement, referring to the moment when Kindiki's traditional headgear fell during the ceremony. DCP Secretary General and Nyandarua Senator John Methu also rejected the endorsement, arguing that political leadership should be determined by residents rather than elders. Methu cited the example of Dedan Kimathi, a historical figure who was not dictated to by elders.
Kindiki outlined his role as instructed by the elders, which includes uniting the people, pursuing development, and supporting President William Ruto. He emphasized that his job is to ensure development for Kenyans across all communities, particularly in the Mount Kenya region. Kindiki also highlighted the government's commitment to investing in neglected areas and expanding infrastructure, including roads and water, across the region.
The Deputy President cited ongoing road works in Tharaka Nithi, particularly in the lower side of the county, as an example of the government's efforts to address neglected areas. He emphasized that leaders should not forget certain areas or people, stressing the importance of inclusivity. Kindiki's efforts to promote unity and development in the Mount Kenya region are crucial ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The endorsement of Kindiki by Mount Kenya elders and his subsequent vows to unite the region have sparked mixed reactions. While some have welcomed his efforts, others, including allies of Gachagua, have rejected the endorsement. Kindiki's focus on development, unity, and supporting the government is expected to continue, with his critics taking their concerns to the elders as he urged.
Key points
- Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has accepted a mandate from Mount Kenya elders to promote unity and support development ahead of the 2027 General Election.
- Kindiki emphasized the crucial role elders play in safeguarding the region's unity, citing their lack of electoral interests.
- The endorsement of Kindiki has sparked mixed reactions, with some welcoming his efforts and others rejecting the endorsement.
