The proposed pre-election coalition between United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is increasingly stirring political tension, particularly over the highly contested Deputy President position.
The demand by ODM for the DP slot has placed Kithure Kindiki in the spotlight, even as he continues to strike a conciliatory tone within the Mt Kenya region.
Speaking recently, Kindiki emphasized unity and reconciliation, stating that he holds no grudges against fellow leaders, even those who have publicly criticized him.
Kindiki said he has chosen forgiveness over confrontation, noting that political differences should not divide communities.
As a member of the Njuri Ncheke council of elders, he stressed the importance of peace and cohesion, insisting that leaders must prioritize unity beyond politics.
The debate over the DP position intensified after ODM leader Oburu Oginga declared that the party would not accept any position lower than Deputy President in any coalition arrangement ahead of the 2027 elections. He maintained that ODM must negotiate from a position of strength.
However, Oburu appeared to send mixed signals during a recent visit to Kisumu attended by President William Ruto and Kindiki, where he reassured the Deputy President that ODM was not seeking to unseat him.
He later clarified that his remarks had been misinterpreted, reaffirming that the party is indeed eyeing the DP position as a key negotiation point.
Kindiki has since responded firmly, stating that his position is secure and not up for negotiation. He expressed confidence in his role as the country’s second-in-command and affirmed that he will remain President Ruto’s running mate in the 2027 General Election.
He also hinted at his long-term political ambitions, noting that his focus remains on future leadership while urging supporters not to be alarmed by ongoing political rhetoric.
According to Kindiki, experienced politicians understand when to engage and when to remain silent.
Meanwhile, leaders from the Mt Kenya region allied to the government have strongly opposed ODM’s demands.
Figures such as Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki and Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku dismissed the proposal, insisting that the DP seat is non-negotiable.
At the same time, political dynamics in the region continue to evolve. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently appeared to reconcile publicly, with Gachagua referring to Uhuru as his “elder brother” and acknowledging past differences.
Gachagua claimed that political divisions between them had been influenced by external forces but insisted that unity within the Mt Kenya region must now take priority.
His remarks signal a possible realignment that could further reshape the political landscape ahead of 2027.
As coalition talks continue, the contest over the Deputy President position remains a key flashpoint.
Whether UDA and ODM can find common ground or whether the disagreement will derail potential cooperation is a question that will likely define Kenya’s political trajectory in the coming months.
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