Court Blocks Kindiki’s Nomination as Deputy President Amid Legal Dispute Following Gachagua’s Impeachment
The Kenyan High Court has temporarily halted the appointment of Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki as Deputy President, following an urgent petition filed by five petitioners. The court issued an order blocking his nomination, citing far-reaching ramifications until the case is heard next Thursday.
This comes after President William Ruto nominated Kindiki for the role, following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on charges of corruption and abuse of office. Despite Kindiki’s confirmation by Kenyan lawmakers, the legal roadblock has delayed his official appointment.
Far-Reaching Legal Implications
According to the petitioners, Kindiki’s appointment should not proceed without further scrutiny, given the seriousness of the allegations surrounding the office. The National Assembly expressed concern over the court’s decision, stating that the orders issued by the petitioners could have significant and far-reaching consequences for the administration.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula confirmed the president’s nomination, stating, “I received a formal message from President Ruto nominating Professor Kithure Kindiki to fill the vacant Deputy President position.”
Kindiki’s Nomination Follows Gachagua’s Impeachment
President Ruto moved quickly to nominate Kindiki within the 14-day window required by the Kenyan Constitution following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua. Gachagua was removed from office in a historic Senate vote, where he was found guilty of corruption, abuse of office, and incitement of ethnic divisions.
Kindiki, a long-time ally of Ruto, has served as Kenya’s Interior Minister and is expected to bring much-needed stability to the government once the legal hurdles are cleared. His appointment, however, remains in limbo until the court rules on the petition.
Next Steps for the Case
The court is scheduled to hear the petition next Thursday, and until then, all proceedings related to Kindiki’s appointment are on hold. Under Kenya’s Constitution, the National Assembly has up to 60 days to vote on a Deputy President nominee, but this process is now subject to the court’s final decision.
As the legal battle unfolds, the public awaits the outcome that could shape the future of Kenya’s leadership at the highest levels of government.
