Deputy President Kithure Kindiki speaking during a church service at AIC Kabartonjo in Baringo North on August 3, 2025/DPCS
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has stepped up efforts to consolidate support for President William Ruto’s re-election, pushing back against ex-DP Rigathi Gachagua’s “one-term” narrative.
Kindiki led a delegation of Kenya Kwanza leaders to Kabartonjo in Baringo county, where they dismissed their rivals as tribal and defeatist while drumming up support for Ruto’s second-term bid.
“If you’re given a big job and you destroy it, that’s your problem. You are tribal and inciting communities against each other,” Kindiki said in a veiled attack on the former Deputy President.
During an economic empowerment programme after a service at AIC Kabartonjo in Baringo North on Sunday, Kindiki urged locals to rally behind the President for a second term.
The service was led by AIC Baringo Bishop William Kotut and attended by by Senate majority leader Aaron Cheruiyot, MPs Joseph Makilap (Baringo North), Musa Sirma (Eldama Ravine), Joshua Kandie (Baringo Central) and William Kamket (Tiaty).
The DP said the ‘Tutam’ (two-term) catchphrase is based on the President’s development record.
“Two terms is not just a slogan—it’s a reflection of the work the President has done. His record speaks for itself,” Kindiki added.
His remarks come amid sustained calls by Gachagua and sections of the opposition pushing for Ruto to serve only one term.
“We’ve been traversing the country and the message is clear—Ruto is a one-term President. There’s growing anger and frustration with his leadership,” Gachagua said recently.
In defence of Ruto’s track record, Kindiki cited several initiatives that have impacted the economy, including subsidised fertiliser that lowered prices from Sh7,000 to Sh2,500, helping improve food production.
“Isn’t that enough reason to guarantee a second term?” he posed.
Kindiki also highlighted progress in the health sector, pointing to the rollout of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), which has registered over 25 million Kenyans under the universal health coverage plan.
He further credited the affordable housing programme and ongoing market construction for empowering youth and women across the country.
“President Ruto is constructing over 400 modern markets nationwide. Doesn’t that merit two terms?” he asked.
The DP lauded the administration for restoring security in the North Rift region, which was previously plagued by rampant banditry.
“As Interior CS, I camped in Baringo and other hotspots to dismantle bandit networks. That could not have happened without the President’s support,” he said.
Kindiki revealed that the government is reviving stalled infrastructure projects, having secured funding to pay contractors and resume work.
“Before the next general election, the state of our roads will be a different story. Projects stalled due to economic challenges, but God has helped us,” he said.
He also responded to Gachagua’s recent jibe labelling him ‘Mr Yes Sir’ over his loyalty to Ruto.
“Some people don’t understand the role of a Deputy President. They say I shouldn’t support the President. But isn’t that exactly my duty?” Kindiki posed.
“Ruto mentored me. I learned from him that the job of a deputy is to support the President and be loyal.”
He praised Ruto’s commitment to peace and development and urged residents to pray for the President as he steers the country.
“The President has done his best. Let’s continue praying for him to lead Kenya to greater heights,” he said.
