Lead image for 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.
Read: Kindiki to his home turf: My DP position is safe
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.