Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki.
Kenya’s former Interior Cabinet Secretary, Professor Kithure Kindiki, was sworn in as Deputy President yesterday, marking a remarkable ascent from rural Tharaka Nithi County to the second-highest office in the land.
The 52-year-old legal scholar’s appointment follows the impeachment of his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, by Parliament. The Swearing In ceremony was conducted Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) where Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Kenya and Chief Registrar Justice Martha Koome and Judith Mokaya respectively presided and administered the 2 oaths of office.
Kindiki’s journey to the deputy presidency began in the lecture halls of Moi University, where he taught law after earning his doctorate from the University of Pretoria. His expertise in International Human Rights Law propelled him into consultancy roles with the United Nations and African Union.
“My academic background has been instrumental in shaping my approach to public service,” Kindiki told journalists at his first press briefing as Deputy President. “The principles of human rights and democracy that I taught in university continue to guide my leadership decisions.”
The new Deputy President first entered politics in 2013 when he was elected Senator for Tharaka Nithi County. His legal acumen was quickly recognised, leading to his appointment as Senate Majority Leader and later Deputy Speaker.
During his tenure as Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kindiki implemented significant security reforms. Crime rates reportedly fell by 13.5% within his first 100 days in office, according to ministry statistics.
Former colleague and retired Judge James Makau described Kindiki as “a brilliant legal mind with an unwavering commitment to constitutional democracy”. He added, “His appointment brings a wealth of experience in both academia and public service to the deputy presidency.”
Kindiki’s elevation marks several firsts for his home region. He becomes the highest-ranking government official from Tharaka Nithi County since Kenya gained independence in 1963.
The appointment has been welcomed by legal scholars across East Africa. Dr Sarah Mwendwa, a constitutional law expert at the University of Nairobi, noted, “Professor Kindiki’s background in international law and human rights could significantly influence Kenya’s approach to regional diplomacy.”
His journey from a pastor’s son to Deputy President reflects Kenya’s social mobility possibilities. Kindiki attended local schools before gaining admission to Lenana School, one of Kenya’s prestigious national schools.
The new Deputy President’s legal career includes notable international experience. He was licensed to practice at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, where he represented current President William Ruto during his trial for crimes against humanity.
Political analysts suggest Kindiki’s appointment could reshape Kenya’s political landscape. “His combination of academic credentials and political experience brings a new dimension to the executive branch,” said Peter Kamau, a political scientist at Strathmore University.
Kindiki’s immediate challenges include addressing regional security concerns and supporting President Ruto’s economic agenda. The Deputy President has already announced plans to continue his security sector reforms on a national scale.
In his acceptance speech, Kindiki emphasised his commitment to national unity. “Our focus must be on delivering services to all Kenyans, regardless of their political affiliations or ethnic backgrounds,” he stated.
The Deputy President’s office has confirmed that Kindiki will retain oversight of several security initiatives he started as Interior Cabinet Secretary, including the Police Leadership Academy project.
As Kenya navigates various economic and social challenges, all eyes are now on how Kindiki’s unique blend of academic, legal, and political experience will influence national policy-making in his new role as Deputy President.
