Kindiki Responds Firmly as ODM Leaders Express Interest in Deputy President’s Seat
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Saturday, February 14, appeared to send a calm but firm message to leaders within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) who have openly expressed interest in taking over his position.
Kindiki was speaking during an unplanned inspection tour of the Maragwa–Ichagaki–Gamburi road project. While addressing residents and local leaders, he took time to respond to the growing political noise surrounding his seat.
Without directly attacking anyone, the Deputy President dismissed the remarks made by ODM leaders and made it clear that he was not worried or shaken by their ambitions.
Describing himself as a seasoned and strategic politician, Kindiki emphasized that he understands how politics works and does not rush to respond to every statement made in public. He assured his supporters that he would address the matter properly when the right time comes.
“Do not be unsettled by small things you hear here and there. We are masters of politics and we do not speak carelessly; we speak at the right time,” Kindiki stated confidently.
ODM Leaders Declare Interest in the Deputy President’s Position
Political tensions began to rise after ODM’s delegates meeting held in Mombasa on February 12. During that gathering, Oburu Odinga, a senior party figure and brother to party leader Raila Odinga, appeared to shift his earlier position regarding the Deputy President’s seat.
Although Oburu had previously indicated that he had no personal problem with Kindiki holding the position, he later clarified that ODM was no longer interested in remaining an opposition party.
Instead, he declared that the party was now strongly targeting the Deputy President’s office as part of its broader political strategy.
“That deputy president seat is what we are targeting very strongly,” Oburu said, signaling a clear change in tone and direction from the party.
His remarks suggested that ODM intends to reposition itself politically within the current power structure, especially as discussions around the broad-based government arrangement continue to unfold.
Mixed Signals Within ODM
At the same time, Gladys Wanga, the Governor of Homa Bay, reinforced the party’s position during one of the Linda Ground tours. She urged ODM supporters to protect the party’s identity and reputation, encouraging members to remain firm and strategic as the political landscape shifts.
Her comments reflected the internal debate within ODM about whether the party should maintain its traditional opposition stance or actively pursue more influential positions within government structures.
However, not all voices within the political space viewed ODM’s ambitions as realistic or practical.
Kenya Kwanza Allies Push Back
While Kindiki himself chose a measured and controlled response, some of his allies reacted more strongly to ODM’s declaration. Leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza coalition criticized ODM’s move, arguing that the Deputy President’s position is not open for negotiation.
Maragua Member of Parliament Mary Wathera questioned why ODM would seek to claim a position that is already occupied under the current arrangement.
“We hold the number two position. Do you want it taken away? Has ODM not just arrived?” she asked, expressing frustration over what she described as premature demands.
Other leaders echoed similar sentiments, stating that the presidency and deputy presidency are constitutional positions and cannot be treated as bargaining chips in political negotiations within a broad-based government.
Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki also weighed in on the matter. He dismissed ODM’s ambitions as unrealistic, arguing that the party does not have sufficient political numbers to successfully push for such a change.
Njuki further pointed to internal divisions within ODM, including the emergence of a breakaway faction associated with leaders such as Edwin Sifuna, as evidence that the party may lack the unity needed to pursue the Deputy President’s seat.
“As much as we are in a broad-based government, the seat of the Deputy President is non-negotiable,” Njuki said firmly.
Political Tensions Continue to Build
The public exchange has highlighted growing political tension within the evolving broad-based government framework. While ODM appears determined to expand its influence and secure a stronger position within the administration, Kenya Kwanza leaders insist that certain offices remain beyond political bargaining.
For now, Deputy President Kindiki has chosen to remain calm and strategic, signaling that he will respond fully at a time of his choosing. His remarks suggest confidence and patience, even as political temperatures continue to rise.
As the situation develops, it is clear that the debate over the Deputy President’s position could become a key talking point in the country’s political landscape in the coming months.
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