Kindiki: I will not be distracted by political noise

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has dismissed criticism from political opponents, saying he will remain focused on delivering development projects and will not be distracted by what he termed as “political noise.”

Speaking on Wednesday during an inspection tour of development projects in Chuka Igambang’ombe Constituency, Tharaka Nithi County, Kindiki said those criticising him had previously held senior government positions but failed to deliver meaningful results for Kenyans.

“Those giving me long lectures were once in big government positions, but while they had power, they did nothing for the people of Kenya,” DP stated.

The Deputy President said some of his critics had served as Vice-President, Deputy President and Cabinet ministers, but had little to show for their tenure.

He questioned their record, arguing that they lacked the basis to advise him on how to carry out his duties.

“Now they have the audacity to teach me my job. There is no place for them completely. They have no roads, no electricity, no markets, no school projects to show for their time in power,” he added.

Kindiki made the remarks as he inspected ongoing infrastructure works, including the Kambandi-Weru-Chuka-Technical-Kaanwa Road and the Kaanwa-Mwanjate-Kamutiiria Ring Road. He said his priority remains the implementation of projects aimed at improving livelihoods in the Mt Kenya region and across the country.

He outlined several key projects under the government’s development agenda, including the construction of the Nithi Bridge, expansion of the Makutano-Embu-Chuka-Meru highway, completion of road networks, development of modern markets and expansion of electricity access.

“When I come back with President William Ruto to ask for your votes, I will have a lot of projects to account for during my time as Deputy President. I will point out each of the projects we have done in every constituency,” he noted.

The Deputy President said the government has set aside Sh7 billion for the construction of the Nithi Bridge, with preliminary preparations already at an advanced stage. These include public participation and engagement with affected residents to facilitate compensation.

“We have 7 billion shillings set aside to construct Nithi Bridge. The project was delayed because the National Land Commission was not fully constituted, but it is now in place. We are negotiating with affected landowners to agree on the best way forward as we sort out compensation,” DP revealed.

He added that development projects worth billions of shillings are ongoing in Tharaka Nithi County.

These include road projects estimated at Sh21 billion, as well as investments in affordable housing, fresh produce markets and student accommodation valued at Sh7 billion.

An additional Sh1 billion has been allocated to connect 9,500 households to electricity in the county.

“Those competing with us when they come here, let them tell the people of Tharaka Nithi what they have delivered for them,” he said.