President Ruto Appoints Prof Abraham Kithure Kindiki New Deputy President

Kenyan President William Ruto has appointed Professor Abraham Kithure Kindiki as Deputy President.

Professor Kithure has been the Interior Minister and his appointment comes just hours after the Senate voted to impeach the last man in the job, Rigathi Gachagua on Friday 18th October 2024.

 Ruto's nomination of a close ally - who still needs to be approved by parliament - comes after a period of political turmoil, mass protests and the first removal of a Kenyan deputy president by impeachment.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua sent his  resignation letter to President Ruto yesterday.

"I have received a message from ... the president, regarding the nomination of Professor Kithure Kindiki to fill the vacancy which has occurred in the office," Speaker Moses Wetang'ula said in the National Assembly.

Gachagua was impeached on five out of 11 charges including gross violation of the constitution and stirring ethnic hatred - accusations that he denied and dismissed as politically motivated.

He backed Ruto in his 2022 election win and helped secure a large block of votes from the populous central Kenya region. But in recent months, Gachagua has spoken of being sidelined, amid widespread reports in local media signalling a rift with Ruto as political alliances shifted. Advertisement · Scroll to continue

"This significant appointment reflects your exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to public service. We are confident that you will bring positive change and contribute to the advancement of our nation. We wish you all the best as you embark on this important journey". Prof Kindiki's friends said.