Kindiki moves to fortify influence in Mt Kenya

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has embarked on an elaborate strategy to consolidate his influence in the Mt Kenya region, a crucial voting bloc that has shown signs of unrest amid growing political tensions.

With Kenya Kwanza’s support waning, the DP is racing against time to reassure residents of the government’s commitment to development while countering criticism that he has not done enough to stem the tide.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi fired the most recent salvo – warning the region they could “lose the seat” if they don't show support.

Former DP Rigathi Gachagua, on the other hand, is targeting Mt Kenya East leaders in efforts pundits say amount to undermining the Kindiki’s influence in his backyard.

The laid back DP, whose close friends refer to as a submarine, appears to not be taking the blows lightly.

Central to his approach are women and youth empowerment programmes, which he has leveraged to reconnect with the grassroots.

Kindiki faces a formidable challenge from Gachagua’s faction, which has vowed to use the Mt Kenya region as a battleground to express discontent with President William Ruto’s administration in the next election.

Ruto is under immense pressure from the opposition, with his former deputy threatening to mount a sweet revenge when the vote is next called.

Mt Kenya voted – almost to the last man – for Ruto in his pair with Gachagua and the latter’s impeachment stirred grumbles.

In a bid to shore up support, Kindiki visited Kirinyaga and Nyandarua counties yesterday, inspecting government projects and delivering promises to residents.

He emphasised his role in overseeing key infrastructure developments including roads, water access, market upgrades and electricity connectivity.

“I will work so hard. There’s no time to sleep,” he declared. “I will go to every corner of the country to ensure our markets and electricity projects function efficiently. Kenya is one country and we must deliver on our mandate.”

The DP was accompanied by Mt Kenya MPs, including Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wa, Mary Maingi (Mwea) and Faith Gitau (Nyandarua), who echoed his sentiments.

Dismissing political distractions, Kindiki urged leaders to focus on service delivery rather than engaging in unnecessary rivalries.

“Those inviting us for competition, we are not available. We are busy and the work is overwhelming. We have no time to waste in useless competition,” he stated.

“With only two and a half years left, we must account for every single day by delivering on our promises.”

Ichung’wa reinforced the message, urging Kindiki to continue his efforts alongside the President.

“The reality is that at the end of the day, history will judge us by what we have accomplished, not by empty talk,” he said.

The Kikuyu MP further dismissed detractors of the Ruto administration, asserting that the focus remains on addressing the needs of Kenyans.

“Each leader will ultimately present their report based on tangible results,” he added. #

As political dynamics continue to shift in Mt Kenya, Kindiki’s aggressive grassroots engagement and infrastructure drive signal a determined push to reclaim the region’s loyalty.

He is methodically building his own power base in Mt Kenya and explaining government agenda to the residents.

Kindiki’s hold is crucial for his 2027 prospects, as Mt Kenya could redefine the balance of power ahead of the next election.

The Deputy President heads to Murang’a and Nyeri today, in a tour where he is expected to reinforce his agenda for the region.