Kindiki fires up Kangema in Mt Kenya consolidation plan

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Friday took his message of development and unity to Kangema constituency, Murang’a county making a passionate case for the Kenya Kwanza administration's economic record ahead of the 2027 elections.

Addressing a crowd at General Kago Stadium, Kindiki dismissed what he termed as "lies" circulating in Nairobi about the region's political allegiance.

His address focused on showcasing concrete development achievements and future commitments.

The deputy president's visit to Kangema appeared strategically significant in the government's ongoing efforts to consolidate support in the vote-rich Mt Kenya region.

"I am happy because I didn't expect such a huge gathering," Kindiki said, visibly pleased with the turnout. "Why are some people lying to us in Nairobi that Kangema is not in the two-term movement?"

His rhetorical questions charging up the crowd seemed aimed at dispelling narratives that the region had withdrawn support from President William Ruto's administration.

He was joined by a contingent of local leaders including MPs Peter Kihungi (Kangema), Betty Maina (Murang'a Woman Representative), Veronicah Maina (Nominated Senator), Sabina Chege (Nominated MNA) and Edwin Mugo (Mathioya), demonstrating support for the government.

Kindiki presented an extensive portfolio of development projects either underway or planned for Murang'a county, framing them as evidence of the government's commitment to the region.

"This is your government. It must build our roads, connect electricity to our households, and ensure we are supplied clean water," he said to cheers from the crowd.

The DP said Murang'a had received development projects worth over Sh17 billion this financial year, with more initiatives underway through the Constituency Development Fund.

He specifically highlighted 23 modern markets worth Sh3 billion near completion, including Karugia and Kagira markets in Kangema constituency.

In the education sector, Sh3.4 billion has been set aside for new hostels at Murang'a University College, Murang'a Teachers College and all Kenya Medical Training Colleges and technical institutes in the area.

The infrastructure push also includes Sh11 billion allocated for affordable housing projects across the county.

The DP adopted a tough stance on infrastructure delivery, particularly regarding the Mau Mau roads network in the Mt Kenya region.

He issued a stern warning to contractors allegedly dragging their feet on projects despite receiving payment.

"We want all projects to be completed faster and on time. Contractors who are slowing down work yet they have been paid will be tasked to explain why they are frustrating government-funded projects," he said.

The government had released Sh60 million for carpeting roads in Kangema with another Sh30 million to be released soon.

The DP promised an additional Sh50 million on top of these allocations. For electricity connectivity, the county is benefiting from Sh1.2 billion for last-mile connectivity, with Kangema's share standing at Sh270 million.

The Deputy President also promised the upgrading of General Kago Stadium, named after the prominent Mau Mau leader, to international standards and better equipment for Kangema Level 4 Hospital.

With the next election cycle approaching, Kindiki mounted a vigorous defense of the administration's economic management, acknowledging challenges while highlighting improvements.

"We are not where we were in 2022. We have moved a great deal and we have two years of great achievements before we present our reelection bid," he said.

 The Kindiki cited falling fertiliser prices as a key intervention that had improved returns for farmers of coffee, milk, tea, maize and sugar.

He also pointed to the strengthening Kenya shilling against the US Dollar as evidence of economic progress.

While defending the administration's record, Kindiki also acknowledged the impact of Covid-19 on the economy, noting that it had contributed to the economic downturn that the current government inherited.

Beyond infrastructure, Kindiki urged residents to register for the Social Health Authority insurance cover, expressing concern about low registration numbers.

He also defended the Linda Jamii initiative, which replaced the Linda Mama programme, explaining that the current administration had expanded maternal healthcare coverage.

"Under the defunct NHIF, the Linda Mama programme offered reimbursement as low as Sh2,500, with little regard for quality of care," he said, referencing concerns raised by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale about maternal mortality rates.

The new Linda Jamii programme offers significantly improved reimbursement rates of Sh10,000 for normal deliveries and Sh30,000 for caesarean sections.

The Deputy President also encouraged massive voter registration, stating, "I want to ask all the eligible voters who have not registered to do so because it is their right to vote but they will only participate if they are registered."

Outlining his vision of leadership, Kindiki criticised what he termed as "lamenting" leaders who complain alongside citizens rather than delivering solutions.

"The major role of leaders is to listen to the people and address their issues," he said.

"It is not acceptable that leaders come lamenting with wananchi. Leaders are supposed to look for the roads, markets and other interventions citizens ask for."

 He praised local leaders for aligning with the government and pushing for development projects, attributing the billions flowing to the county to their efforts.

As the 2027 elections approach, Kindiki's message blended development accountability with political mobilisation.

"Time for politics is coming and we assure them that when that time comes, they will see fire," he said, adding that the Kenya Kwanza record would speak for itself.

INSTANT ANALYSIS

The extensive projection and firm delivery timelines appeared designed to build confidence among residents that their support for the administration would yield tangible benefits. With his emphasis on development over what he characterised as empty opposition rhetoric, Kindiki's Kangema engagement may signal the government's broader strategy for maintaining support in its crucial Central Kenya base.