Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki's coronation as the Mt. Kenya kingpin has been dismissed by United Democratic Alliance (UDA) MPs. The coronation, which took place at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County on September 21, 2026, was attended by several leaders. However, MPs George Kariuki of Ndia, George Koimburi of Juja, and George Gachagua of Ndaragwa expressed concerns that the exercise lacked the involvement of all elders and the blessings of the community.
The lawmakers made their sentiments known during a meeting with Kiama Kia Ma elders in Juja constituency on Saturday. They argued that the region's leadership mantle is still held by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who assumed the role in 2011. According to the MPs, the entire process of coronating Kindiki was secretly hatched and executed hastily, instead of following the right procedure of installing the community's kingpin.
MP George Kariuki described the coronation ceremony as a sham, citing that even the ceremonial crown worn by Kindiki fell from his head, indicating a failed process. Kariuki, who is seeking to be picked as President William Ruto's running mate during next year's general elections, emphasized that they only recognize Uhuru as the rightful region's kingpin. He added that they would seek Uhuru's blessings to install a new kingpin.
MP George Koimburi, a fierce critic of Deputy President Kindiki, stated that the region cannot be led by a leader who has been working with other leaders in government to divide the Mt Kenya region. Koimburi also reiterated that Kindiki has failed to stamp his authority in the current regime, which is why he seems sidelined in many state functions, including the recent Nyanza region tour by President Ruto.
The MPs also criticized Kindiki for failing to act on illicit brews and second-generation brews that have been rampaging the region, claiming innocent lives and destroying the lives of thousands of young people. Kariuki noted that they will push for the enforcement of existing laws to tame the vice as they step up the fight against outlawed and counterfeit liquor.
Kikuyu elders, led by Maina wa Kibe and Mwangi Kagumo, expressed their disappointment with the coronation process, stating that they were left dumbfounded after learning about it through the media. In contrast, Kiambu Kiama elders were not involved, terming the entire exercise a sham and stating that such events are conducted in a shrine, not a public ground.
The rejection of Kindiki's coronation by UDA MPs and Kikuyu elders has raised questions about the legitimacy of the exercise and the leadership of the Mt Kenya region. The region's leadership dynamics have been a subject of interest, with various leaders vying for influence and control.
Key points
- UDA MPs reject Kindiki's coronation as Mt Kenya kingpin.
- MPs cite lack of involvement of all elders and community blessings.
- Kindiki's coronation seen as a sham by several leaders and elders.
