Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has called on Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders to cease discussions that undermine Deputy President Kithure Kindiki's office. Speaking in Ontulili, Buuri Constituency, Meru County, Ruku emphasized that the Deputy President's role is occupied and deserves respect.
He singled out ODM figures, including Cooperative Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, accusing them of treating the position as vacant through persistent public debate. "The office of the Deputy President is occupied. It is wrong for leaders to continue discussing it as though it were vacant," Ruku stated.
Ruku reaffirmed that Kindiki remains President William Ruto's preferred running mate for the 2027 General Election, dismissing speculation about changes to the Kenya Kwanza ticket. He urged ODM to focus on other political posts that could arise from future negotiations instead of targeting the Deputy President's office.
Highlighting regional political representation, Ruku noted that leaders from Western Kenya already hold key government positions, such as the Prime Cabinet Secretary and the Speaker of the National Assembly. He warned that the Mt Kenya region would not tolerate sidelining in upcoming political arrangements.
"The Mt Kenya region will firmly stand behind the Ruto-Kindiki ticket in 2027. Thereafter, we shall rally behind Prof. Kindiki for the presidency in 2032," Ruku declared.
The Cabinet Secretary acknowledged that political negotiations are part of coalition politics but insisted they should respect leaders currently serving in constitutional roles. He criticized ODM for creating an impression that the Deputy President's office is available.
Ruku also accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of plotting against President Ruto, drawing parallels with failed attempts by some Mt Kenya West leaders to undermine former President Daniel arap Moi. He predicted similar efforts against Ruto would fail.
Reaffirming unity within the Kenya Kwanza administration, Ruku said the Mt Kenya region remains committed to supporting President Ruto ahead of the 2027 polls.
He was accompanied by MPs Mugambi Rindikiri (Buuri), Patrick Munene (Chuka Igamba Ng'ombe), and John Bwire (Taveta), who echoed his support for the Ruto-Kindiki ticket.
