Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has assured Kenyans that his office will serve the interests of all citizens, regardless of ethnic or party affiliation, as the country faces a number of economic and developmental challenges. Speaking at his first thanksgiving service since taking office, Kindiki emphasized the importance of unity and collective action to overcome the nation’s obstacles.
“Despite the many challenges we face, this country is blessed. We have peace, unlike other nations suffering from civil strife and social instability. In Kenya, God has helped us overcome these challenges,” said Prof. Kindiki, during the Sunday service at the Jesus Palace of Praise Church in Mwatate Town, Taita Taveta County.
The Deputy President acknowledged the tough economic conditions facing the nation and called for support from all Kenyans and elected leaders to assist President William Ruto in his efforts to address them.
“Unity is crucial. Without unity, we will not realize our goals as a nation. Kenyans must be patient and show restraint as the President works tirelessly to realize the country’s aspirations,” Kindiki stressed. “Together, we must focus on development, peace, and prosperity for every Kenyan, irrespective of where they come from or their political leanings.”
The thanksgiving service, attended by both government and opposition leaders, was notably overshadowed by ongoing discussions about the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. MPs and leaders from various political parties used the occasion to reflect on the significance of the leadership change and what it means for the future of the country.
Taita Taveta Woman Representative Lydia Haika, alongside MPs Danson Mwashako (Wundanyi), John Bwire (Taveta), John Kiarie (Dagoretti South), Nimrod Mbai (Kitui East), and Geoffrey Ruku (Mbeere North), all stood with Deputy President Kindiki, voicing support for his appointment and advocating for a new era of unity in Kenya.
Kiarie, in his address, noted that the removal of Gachagua marked the end of divisive political tactics and called for a focus on national development. “There is no longer leadership for Mount Kenya alone. What we have now is leadership to unite all Kenyans. This is the time for the President and his new deputy to deliver for the country,” he said.
Mbai also praised Kindiki’s appointment, emphasizing that it fulfilled God’s will and was part of a larger national plan to stabilize the country. He pointed out that the country was witnessing the end of “shareholding politics,” a term used to describe ethnic-based political manipulation and favoritism. “The President was ‘prayed into power’ and has chosen the right deputy. God has led him to this moment,” Mbai said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Ruku expressed confidence in Kindiki’s ability to serve the entire nation. “Prof. Kindiki will no longer represent only the Mount Kenya region; he will serve all Kenyans. He will preach peace, love, and unity and will assist the President in serving the entire nation, unlike the previous Deputy President,” Ruku remarked, referring to Gachagua’s ousting. He further condemned the politics of shareholding and corruption, calling for reforms to ensure more equitable development.
Bwire, who also supported the motion to impeach Gachagua, described the delay in Kindiki’s appointment as unfortunate but emphasized that the moment had finally arrived. “This is the time for unity. We were told we wouldn’t be ‘shareholders’ until 2027, but now we see light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
Mwashako, a vocal advocate for the Kenya Kwanza administration, also addressed the long-standing issues of marginalization in the Coast region. He lamented that areas like Taita Taveta and Tharaka Nithi had been overlooked for infrastructure development and called on the government to fulfill its promises, particularly with regard to revenue sharing from the Tsavo region. “We have supported the government, but we expect it to deliver on its promises. If the government fulfills its pledges, we will continue to support it,” Mwashako stated.
In addition, Rong’e Ward legislator Dorcyus Mlughu spoke out against corruption within the Taita Taveta County administration, accusing local officials of mismanaging funds meant for vital services such as healthcare. “There are no drugs or gloves in health facilities, despite receiving its fair share of government revenue. Poor management and corruption are to blame. The county needs radical reforms to eliminate corruption cartels,” she said.
In his closing remarks, Deputy President Kindiki reiterated his commitment to serving all Kenyans with fairness and integrity, reinforcing his pledge to help steer the nation toward greater unity, peace, and prosperity.
“We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s history,” Kindiki concluded. “Let us put aside our differences and focus on the common good of all Kenyans. Together, we will build a brighter future for our children and for generations to come.”
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