The race to succeed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, facing potential ouster by Parliament, has narrowed to two prominent candidates.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki might be the finalists in the race.
The Star newspaper states that State House insiders suggest that President William Ruto is considering either as a replacement if Gachagua is removed.
Waiguru, a former Cabinet Secretary for Devolution, is seen as a frontrunner, particularly as Ruto aims to strengthen ties with Central Kenya, Gachagua’s home region.
She has also been mentioned in discussions about a female running mate for the 2027 elections.
Kindiki, a close ally of Ruto, has strong support from many leaders in Mt Kenya, making the competition for Gachagua’s position intense.
Anne Waiguru born in 1971, has a notable public service career.
She attended schools in Nairobi and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture and Home Economics from Egerton University, along with a Master’s in Public Finance from the University of Nairobi.
Her early career included roles at Transparency International and the Kenya Leadership Institute.
Waiguru gained prominence as the Head of Governance at the National Treasury, overseeing significant reforms like the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS).
As the first Cabinet Secretary for Devolution and Planning, she introduced Huduma Centers, winning multiple awards, including the 2015 United Nations Public Service Award for enhancing access to government services.
However, her career has faced challenges, notably a corruption scandal in 2015 linked to the National Youth Service (NYS), which led to her resignation amid public outcry.
Despite the controversy, Waiguru successfully transitioned into politics, joining the Jubilee Party.
Kithure Kindiki, born on January 18, 1975, is a prominent Kenyan lawyer and politician, known for his significant roles in the country.
He pursued his education in law at the University of Nairobi and later earned a Master of Laws from the University of Cambridge.
Kindiki has held various positions, including serving as the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and as a key advisor to former Deputy President William Ruto.
In 2022, he was appointed the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration in President Ruto’s administration, where he oversees critical aspects of national security and governance.
Now, as Ruto deliberates on his next move, the political landscape in Kenya remains charged with speculation about who will step into the role of Deputy President.
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