Mudavadi Affirms Kindiki’s Role as Deputy President Amid 2027 Running Mate Speculation
Prime CS Mudavadi insists DP Kindiki is effectively serving, while urging respect for political ambitions ahead of 2027 elections.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has reiterated that the Deputy President position is currently held by Kithure Kindiki, dismissing claims that the office is vacant amid rising interest from various leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a televised interview on Sunday, August 23, 2026, Mudavadi emphasized that President William Ruto alone holds the constitutional authority to decide on his running mate for the upcoming election.
Kindiki’s Performance Praised
"The position is not vacant. DP Kindiki is in place and doing a good job," Mudavadi stated, highlighting Kindiki’s commitment to serving both the President and the country. Kindiki assumed the Deputy President role in October 2024 following the impeachment of former DP Rigathi Gachagua.
Political Aspirations and Democratic Rights
While defending Kindiki’s incumbency, Mudavadi acknowledged the democratic right of politicians to express interest in the Deputy President slot. He urged that such ambitions should not be suppressed, noting that public opinion and ultimately the President’s decision will determine the outcome.
- Political leaders are free to campaign for the position as part of Kenya’s democratic process.
- Voters remain the ultimate arbiters in shaping political calculations.
- The President retains final authority over the choice of running mate.
2027 Election Dynamics
The Deputy President position has become a focal point within the broad-based government as various factions seek influence in Ruto’s re-election campaign. Although Ruto has not officially confirmed whether Kindiki will continue as his running mate, Kindiki and his supporters assert his rightful place on the ticket.
Meanwhile, Mudavadi, whose own name has surfaced in running mate discussions, clarified that his political ambitions target the presidency in 2032 rather than a deputy role in 2027. This aligns him with other senior politicians preparing for the post-2027 political landscape.