The swearing-in of Professor Kithure Kindiki as Kenya’s Deputy President has sparked controversy and faced delays due to legal disputes and disagreements in Parliament.
Kindiki was nominated by President William Ruto after the impeachment of his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua.
Although the National Assembly overwhelmingly approved his nomination, with 236 MPs supporting it, his swearing-in has been postponed due to a court order halting the process until October 24, 2024.
This ruling was made in response to an urgent application filed by Gachagua’s legal team, raising constitutional concerns over the impeachment.
The situation has caused tension within Kenya’s political landscape. Some senators and opposition leaders expressed frustration with the decision, accusing the government of rushing the impeachment and nomination processes without proper scrutiny.
Furthermore, Kindiki’s role as Interior Minister during the crackdown on anti-government protests has drawn criticism from those who see him as complicit in alleged human rights abuses, further complicating his appointment,
As the political drama unfolds, the country awaits the court’s decision on October 24, which will determine whether Kindiki can officially assume his role as Deputy President.
Until then, uncertainty surrounds the future of this key political office in Kenya