Abraham Kithure Kindiki Profile: From Scoring C in KCSE to Next DP
On Friday morning, President William Ruto submitted the name of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to the National Assembly for approval. This move marks a critical step in Kindiki’s journey to potentially becoming Kenya’s next Deputy President.
Background and Education
Abraham Kithure Kindiki is set to become Kenya’s third Deputy President under the 2010 Constitution. Born on July 17, 1972, in Irunduni village, Tharaka Nithi county, Kindiki married Joyce Gatiiria Njagi in 2001.
He initially attended Lenana School for his secondary education, where he scored a grade C in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE). Due to his grades, he was unable to pursue law, his dream course.
Determined to succeed, he repeated secondary school at Tharaka Nithi Boys High School with his sights set on achieving his goal.
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Kindiki has since accumulated an impressive academic portfolio. He earned a law degree (LLB) from Moi University and a Diploma in Legal Studies from the Kenya School of Law.
Additionally, he holds a Master’s Degree in International Human Rights Law & Democracy and a PhD in International Law from the University of Pretoria, South Africa. He is also an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Early Career and Political Entry
Early in his career, Kindiki worked as a lecturer at Moi University. He later became a Senior Lecturer and the Head of the Department of Public Law at the University of Nairobi, eventually rising to the position of Associate Dean at the School of Law.
During this period, he also served as the Secretary of National Cohesion under President Mwai Kibaki.
Kindiki’s political career was sparked by his involvement in defending William Ruto at the International Criminal Court (ICC) during his trial for alleged involvement in the 2007/2008 post-election violence. His defense of Ruto garnered significant praise and paved the way for his entry into politics.
Political Journey and Senate Career
In 2013, Kindiki was elected as the Senator for Tharaka Nithi county on a TNA party ticket, marking his first time contesting for public office.
He was reelected in 2017, and during his time in the Senate, he held prominent roles. From 2013 to 2017, he served as the Senate Majority Leader, and from August 2017 to 2020, he was the Senate Deputy Speaker.
Appointment as Interior Cabinet Secretary
Following President William Ruto’s victory in the 2022 General Election, Kindiki was appointed as the Interior Cabinet Secretary, a key position in the government.
His appointment followed speculation that he had been the top choice to be Ruto’s running mate before former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was selected. This choice hinted that Kindiki could one day succeed Gachagua.
Future as Deputy President
As the incoming Deputy President, Kindiki faces a vastly different role from his previous positions. He is expected to rely on his extensive government experience to succeed Rigathi Gachagua, who was ousted.
In the Ruto administration, Kindiki was perceived as the best-performing Cabinet Secretary, according to a poll conducted by InfoTrak. This strong performance raises expectations for his new role as Deputy President.
There is a notable contrast between Kindiki and his predecessor, Gachagua. While Gachagua, a former Mathira MP, was known for being outspoken and assertive, Kindiki is seen as more soft-spoken and less involved in grassroots politics. Gachagua’s rapid rise in politics is in stark contrast to Kindiki’s steady progression.
Expectations and Challenges Ahead
Observers predict that Kindiki will focus on service delivery rather than political theatrics. The government faces numerous challenges, including a high cost of living, widespread corruption, and a focus on politics over governance.
As Deputy President, Kindiki will be tasked with implementing the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), aimed at uplifting economically disadvantaged Kenyans.
Impact on Mt. Kenya Politics
Kindiki’s appointment also has significant implications for the political landscape in the Mt. Kenya region. The competition for regional supremacy has intensified, especially following Gachagua’s removal.
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Kindiki’s new position is expected to enhance his influence in this ongoing contest. His recent endorsement by the Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders as the Mt. Kenya kingpin further solidifies his standing in the region. Whether this will affect the 2027 elections remains to be seen.
Abraham Kithure Kindiki Profile: From Scoring C in KCSE to Next DP.
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