Africa-Press – Kenya. Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has defended Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, declaring that leaders allied to the government will not relinquish the position amid a growing political interest in the office.
Mbarire said the push by unnamed individuals to target the deputy presidency was driven by recognition of the office’s growing influence.
“We have heard people saying that they want your seat. They want that seat because you have done a good work, and they have recognised the power of that seat,” she said.
“We are not letting go of that seat. We are telling you today that Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and the deputy president seat is ours. They can just try but we are not letting go.”
She praised the Deputy President’s national standing, describing him as a unifying figure across the country.
“Kindiki is a national leader [who] has united the whole country,” she said.
Speaking during an ODM delegates meeting in Mombasa on February 12, ODM party leader Oburu Oginga made it clear that they would be negotiating for the post in their talks with UDA.
“That Deputy President seat is what we are targeting very strongly,” Oburu said.
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire with Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki for a Church Service at Full Gospel Churches of Kenya-Kanthoki, Evurore Ward on February 22, 2026./HANDOUTHe argued that ODM’s national popularity and widespread support justify its demand for a powerful position in any political coalition it joins, claiming that the party deserves its “fair share” in government based on its political influence and voter base.
On February 15, Kindiki affirmed that he is fully focused on executing his constitutional mandate while supporting President William Ruto in securing a second term in the upcoming General Election.
Speaking on Sunday in Kariene town, Central Imenti Constituency, Meru County, the Deputy President dismissed speculation about his political future, stating that he remains committed to delivering on the government’s development agenda.
“I am the Deputy President. This seat is going nowhere, and when we are done with the second term, we will progress ahead in search of the higher office,” he said.
The Deputy President described himself as a seasoned politician who understands when to engage in politics and when to focus on service delivery.
“As veteran politicians, we know when to talk, when to do politics, and when to work for the people. We will not engage in idle talk every day because we have a lot to do for the people,” he noted.
He emphasized that his current priority is to accelerate development projects and ensure the completion of ongoing initiatives to improve the lives of wananchi.
“It is about what you have done for the people because, in the end, it will be what you delivered to them,” he added.
