I’m independent-minded, Kindiki says as he tells off critics calling him Ruto's ‘yes man’
By Maureen Kinyanjui |
The Deputy President said while advising the President is part of his duties, this only occurs if the President requests his counsel.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has defended his position as the second in command, insisting that he is "his own man" and that his role as the principal assistant to President William Ruto does not require him to agree with everything his boss says or does.
Speaking on Thursday, Kindiki clarified his stance on the responsibilities of his office, rejecting claims that he is a mere "yes man" to the President.
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In his response to these allegations, Kindiki stated that the Constitution does not require the Deputy President to always agree with the President.
"I am my own man. My understanding of the role of the Deputy President is not to challenge the President. It's not in the Constitution, it is not in any law," he said.
He added that his role is not to oppose the President, but to support him, and to offer counsel when sought.
The Deputy President also pointed out that while advising the President is part of his duties, this only occurs if the President requests his counsel.
"As to whether the Deputy President can advise the President, the answer is yes. The oath of office I took is to advise the President when my counsel is sought faithfully. It doesn't mean I have to do it on the podium. My allegiance lies in the oath of office," he explained.
Kindiki's comments come after accusations from some of his critics that President Ruto appointed him as a "yes man" following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua.
The President appointed Kindiki as his deputy, citing his tireless public service and commitment to national unity.
"Kithure Kindiki is a patriot whose dedication to cohesion, national unity, and inclusivity is beyond reproach," Ruto said.
Kindiki was sworn in as Kenya's third Deputy President under the new Constitution, after a career as the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration.
He took office alongside Ruto, following the 2022 elections, and has since assumed the role of second-in-command with the primary duty of assisting the President.
In his speech, Kindiki made it clear that while he holds a critical role in the government, his loyalty lies first and foremost to the Constitution and the oath he took when he became Deputy President.
He vowed not to let down his boss, President Ruto.
In his maiden address as the second in command on November 1, 2024, Kindiki expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity he was given to serve under Ruto's stewardship.
"I promise you before this congregation and God that I will not let you down," he said, stressing his commitment to support the President in his vision for the nation.
Reflecting on nearly two decades of mentorship under Ruto, Kindiki said he had picked great lessons from his boss.
"Nothing in the political space has helped me to pick up lessons more than the years that I have walked and served around you," he said as he took office.
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