Francis Wambugu Irungu On January 15, 2026, during a Sunday service at Joy Holy Trinity Church in Mwea, Kirinyaga County, the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku, firmly dismissed the ODM party’s ambitions for the Deputy President seat. Speaking alongside Mwea MP Mary Maingi and various heads of state departments, Ruku asserted that the Deputy President position rightfully belongs to Professor Kithure Kindiki, stating, “The seat for the DP, moving towards 2027 and 2032, belongs to Kindiki.”
This declaration comes on the heels of ODM party leader’s announcements expressing the party’s intent to pursue the DP seat. Ruku’s remarks highlighted the existing tensions that arise when an occupied position is targeted by opposition parties, particularly when the seat symbolizes Mt. Kenya’s representation within the government.
“We already have the broad-based government arrangement, which we respect, and we want to maintain unity,” Ruku emphasized, urging ODM to consider other political positions rather than those of the President and Deputy President. He proposed that ODM should wait until 2032 to negotiate for the Deputy President’s seat, with Kindiki going for the highest office then.
Ruku also took a strong stance against the opposition, declaring, “We too are sons of Mau Mau,” thereby contesting any claims of dominance by DCP party leader, Rigathi Gachagua within the region. He called for respect and conveyed that those willing to take an opposing view should do so with the understanding that Mt. Kenya East will continue to support the current Deputy President and his administration.
Echoing Ruku’s sentiments, MP Mary Maingi reinforced the region’s unwavering support for Kithure Kindiki. She asserted, “The seat for the Deputy President is not vacant,” firmly dismissing any plans from the opposition party regarding this significant role in the forthcoming elections. Maingi highlighted the fundamental role of a Deputy President in aiding the President with their duties, confidently stating, “Kindiki is the right man for the job.”
The service also featured remarks from Bishop Bernard Njuguna Kung’u, who encouraged congregants to respect authority, reminding them that “leadership comes from God.” His message resonated with the community, reinforcing the importance of unity and respect for the established political structures.
As the political climate evolves, it remains to be seen how ODM’s ambitions will unfold and how the dynamics within Mt. Kenya will shape the upcoming elections. For now, Ruku’s firm stance sets a clear message: the Deputy President seat remains firmly with Kithure Kindiki, strengthening the region’s voice in the government.
