Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has dismissed claims of a fallout with President William Ruto, explaining that his recent absence from public and national events was due to a brief holiday.
Kindiki has missed several high-profile events since the end of last year, sparking speculation about his relationship with the President.
Among the events he skipped were President Ruto’s New Year’s Eve address and dinner at the Kisii State Lodge and the Piny Luo Cultural Festival in Siaya County.
The festival was attended by President Ruto, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The Deputy President was also absent from separate occasions at Ruto’s Kilgoris home, where the President hosted Ghana’s President-elect John Dramani Mahama and outgoing African Union Commission chairperson Moussa Faki. Both events were attended by Raila.
Additionally, Kindiki missed the burial of Mama Anne Nanyama, the mother of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, further fueling speculation of a rift between him and the President.
Observers have likened the perceived tension to the early signs of discord between President Ruto and impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
On Saturday, the Deputy President made his first public appearance of the year at the wedding of Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano’s son in Tigoni, Kiambu County. He addressed the rumors, stating that his absence was a personal decision to take time off and recharge.
“I am left with a few hours; my holiday is coming to an end, and I need to enjoy whatever is left and ignore everything else… completely,” Kindiki said. “Don’t fall into the trap of triviality and small issues.”
Despite the rumors, Kindiki expressed optimism for the year ahead and reiterated his unwavering support for the President. He thanked President Ruto for granting him time off and emphasized his readiness to resume his duties.
“I am glad the President allowed me a few days off. I feel so energized, and I believe that this is the year that all of us will rally, support the President, and take Kenya to the next level,” he said.
