Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has dismissed speculation about a potential fallout with President William Ruto.

Speaking on Saturday January 4, 2024 in Tigoni, Kiambu County, when he attended the wedding of Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano’s son, Kindiki insisted that his recent absence from national and public events is due to a brief holiday.

Kindiki has been noticeably absent from several high-profile public events towards the end of 2024 and the start of the New Year including President Ruto’s New Year’s Eve address.

The deputy president also failed to attend the Piny Luo Cultural Festival in Siaya County, which was attended by President Ruto, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

He was also absent when President Ruto hosted Ghana’s President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, and outgoing African Union Commission chairperson Moussa Faki.

Additionally, Kindiki did not attend the burial of Mama Anne Nanyama, the mother of Speaker Moses Wetangula, raising further speculation about a potential rift between him and President Ruto. 

However, speaking on Saturday, the deputy president explained that he had taken a brief break from his official duties as DP in the days leading up to the last year’s festive season and is focused on enjoying his remaining time off.

“I am left with a few hours; my holiday is coming to an end and therefore I need to enjoy whatever is left and ignore everything else…completely,” he said.

“Don’t fall into the trap of triviality and small issues,” he added. 

At the same time, Kindiki reiterated his strong support for President Ruto while thanking the Head of State for allowing him to go on leave.

“I am glad the President allowed me a few days off. I feel so energised and I believe that this is the year that all of us will rally, support the President and take Kenya to the next level,” he said.