Deputy President sworn in: Meru, Tharaka-Nithi celebrate as Kindiki takes oath
Kithure Kindiki is sworn in as Kenya's deputy president on November 1, 2024 in Nairobi.
Celebrations rocked Meru and Tharaka-Nithi counties after Kithure Kindiki was sworn in as deputy president on Friday.
Elated residents said Kindiki's ascension to the presidency had rekindled hope for political leadership in the Mt Kenya East region and the revival of stalled projects such as roads.
Meru Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma said they expected Prof Kindiki to help the current administration deliver development across the country.
"We are confident that Kindiki's commitment and expertise will be instrumental in supporting the President in implementing the agenda for Kenyans. We also extend our gratitude to the judiciary for upholding our constitutional principles, reflecting our nation’s commitment to democracy and justice," Mr Mutuma said.
Washington Muthamia, the secretary-general of the Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders, said Prof Kindiki should be a nationalist who looks after the interests of all Kenyans.
"You have taken the office of the Deputy President to work for all Kenyans. Let us now set aside all negative politics and forge towards achieving the development agenda," Mr Muthamia said.
Mr Josphat Murangiri, the elders' secretary, said politics had stalled the implementation of development programmes.
Mr Gedion Kimathi, a Meru politician, said President William Ruto had kept his promise to work closely with Kindiki.
"We expect more development projects with the swearing-in of Prof Kindiki. We promise to stand by President Ruto in 2027. We urge Kindiki to respect the president and prepare for the 2032 election," Mr Kimathi said.
He said the focus should now shift to pending development projects.
Ms Catherine Kathambi, a resident of Kanyakine, said the new DP should focus on uniting the country.
"This is a historic moment for the Mt Kenya East region. We expect Kindiki to be a good deputy president by uniting all Kenyans. We have not got such an opportunity since independence," she said.
Mr Mike Makarina, a Meru politician, expressed confidence that Kindiki's work ethic would propel him to the top seat in 2032.
Mr David Mutonga, a resident of South Imenti, said, "We urge all Kenyans to support the new deputy president so that this administration can deliver on its promise. We pray that our country shall experience peace and prosperity."
Mr Kelvin Karani, a youth leader, said holding the DP position should kickstart Kindiki's journey to become president in 2032.
"We urge the deputy president to work closely with the president and emulate the former president Mwai Kibaki who transformed Kenya," he said.
