Njuri Ncheke elders declare Kindiki Mt Kenya spokesman, vow to defend DP seat
Amid stiff competition for President William Ruto’s running mate slot in 2027, Njuri Ncheke elders have vowed to defend Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s position against aspiring politicians.
The Njuri Ncheke elders announced a charm offensive targeting other communities, particularly those in the Mt Kenya region, aimed at rallying support for Prof Kindiki.
The move is seen as Prof Kindiki’s last-ditch effort to bolster the much-needed voter numbers to match those eyeing the seat of the second in command.
As the opposition spreads its tentacles across the Mt Kenya region, pundits have observed that President Ruto was scouting elsewhere for the numbers needed to secure a second term.
In their resolution, the Njuri Ncheke elders also opposed the push to divide the Mt Kenya region into East and West, noting that Prof Kindiki needs the entire mountain to outmanoeuvre other political suitors.
The clamour for the deputy president's seat has gained momentum in recent months, with several leaders in the broad-based government expressing interest.
Among those who have expressed interest in replacing Prof Kindiki are ODM leader Oburu Oginga, Cabinet Secretaries Wycliffe Oparanya and Hassan Joho, as well as National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
In an effort to rally his backyard in support of him, Prof Kindiki was adorned in traditional regalia and declared the Mt Kenya spokesperson by the Njuri Ncheke.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki (centre) in traditional regalia after being declared the Mt Kenya spokesperson by the Njuri Ncheke in Meru on August 7, 2026.
"Going forward, Prof Kindiki is the Mt Kenya spokesperson. He is the only one authorised to speak for and on behalf of our people. As elders, we will lead talks with other communities to support our son," Mr Murangiri said.
He said the position of deputy president was not vacant and should not feature in any political negotiations.
The sentiments were backed by Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma, who urged politicians in the broad-based government to abandon the clamour for the DP seat.
"For the avoidance of doubt, let it be known that the Deputy President is Kithure Kindiki. The only time we can have a discussion about the deputy president's seat is in 2032 after President William Ruto has finished his term," Governor Mutuma said.
In a statement read by former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, the elders vowed to "fight tooth and nail" to retain the deputy president's seat under the Ruto administration.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki (centre) in traditional regalia after being declared the Mt Kenya spokesperson by the Njuri Ncheke in Meru on August 7, 2026.
"We thank President Ruto for according our son the deputy president's seat. This is the greatest honour any President has ever accorded the Ameru people, and Njuri Ncheke in particular. We are truly grateful to him," Mr Murungi said.
He added: "Njuri Ncheke shall not keep quiet and allow anyone to take from us that which is rightfully ours."
As a result, the elders have advised the Ameru community and the wider Mt Kenya region to overwhelmingly support President Ruto.
"Njuri Ncheke has always worked closely with the Kiama Kia Ma Council of Elders, Ngoome Mbeere Council of Elders, Nyangi Ndiriiri, and the Councils of Elders of Embu to promote good leadership, peace, unity, and prosperity in the Mt Kenya region and across the country. As Njuri Ncheke, we do not support the splitting of the mountain. We want one mountain because we have always been one people with our brothers from Mt Kenya West," the former Meru governor said.
Speaking after being crowned, Prof Kindiki said he was now more empowered to traverse the Mt Kenya region to seek support for President Ruto.
"I understand the task bestowed on me today. I will traverse the entire region and the country, ensuring I consolidate support for President William Ruto. I am happy to have earned your trust, and I am up to the task. I will bring honour to my fellow elders," Prof Kindiki said.
He reiterated the call for the unity of the Mt Kenya region, noting that divisions would not happen under his watch.
"I want us to focus on ensuring all our votes in the Mt Kenya region go to President Ruto in 2027. A senior seat in Meru belongs to the mountain, and a senior seat in the west also belongs to the mountain. Let us stop divisive politics because our neighbours in the west have not shown any differences," the DP said.
Prof Kindiki also supported the elders' resolution to traverse the country campaigning for him.
"Let us allow the elders to meet their counterparts in the West and discuss our unity as a people. If they reject the request from our elders, we will know what to do then," DP Kindiki added.
Prof Kindiki, who has in recent months struck a reconciliatory tone, extended an olive branch to political rivals Peter Munya, Mithika Linturi, Justin Muturi and Lenny Kivuti, urging them to join him in government.
"I urge my brothers who are in the opposition that we respect each other as brothers. I am willing to help you secure senior positions in government after the elections," Prof Kindiki said.
He also appealed to Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua to avoid confrontational politics.
"I am glad that Gachagua has promised to stop insulting and calling me names. If he keeps his word, I will also be civil. Let him know that I won't be intimidated," the DP said.
After hosting the deputy president, the elders are expected to host President William Ruto in an effort to avert a change of guard in the office of the deputy president.
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