Kindiki Responds to ODM’s Deputy President Bid, Dismisses Oburu Odinga’s Ambitions
Kindiki spoke on Saturday, February 14, during an impromptu inspection of the Maragwa-Ichagaki-Gamburi road project, where he indicated he was not shaken by emerging political ambitions from within the ruling coalition’s partners.
Addressing residents and local leaders, the Deputy President urged supporters to remain calm amid growing political debate.
He stated “Do not be unsettled by small things you hear here and there. We are masters of politics and we do not speak carelessly, we speak at the right time.”
ODM declares interest in DP seat
During the meeting, Oburu signaled a shift in tone from earlier conciliatory remarks, saying the party would actively pursue the Deputy President position in future political arrangements.
He said “That deputy president seat is what we are targeting very strongly.”
The statement marked a departure from his earlier position in which he suggested the party had no dispute with the current office holder.
Party leaders later reiterated that ODM would no longer operate strictly as an opposition movement, indicating a re-alignment strategy within Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
Allies push back
Maragwa MP Mary Wathera questioned the move, stating “We hold the number two position. Do you want it taken away? Has ODM not just arrived?”
Similarly, Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki dismissed the ambitions as unrealistic given the current parliamentary arithmetic and emerging internal divisions within ODM.
He added “As much as we are in a broad-based government, the seat of the Deputy President is non-negotiable.”
Growing political tensions
Analysts say the rhetoric reflects early strategic maneuvering rather than an immediate constitutional contest, since the Deputy President is elected on a joint ticket with the President.
Observers also note that coalition politics in Kenya often involves negotiation over influence, policy direction and power-sharing rather than formal mid-term office changes.
Despite the heated exchanges, Kindiki avoided direct confrontation, opting instead for a restrained tone while promising to address political matters at an appropriate time.
He reiterated “We will speak when the time is right.”
Political commentators interpret the Deputy President’s remarks as an attempt to project stability while discouraging speculation about leadership wrangles within the administration.
Looking ahead
While no formal process exists to replace a sitting Deputy President outside constitutional provisions, the debate signals intensifying political positioning among coalition partners.
For now, both camps appear to be rallying supporters publicly while maintaining cooperation in government operations.
Residents at the road inspection event expressed concern that political disputes could overshadow development priorities, urging leaders to focus on service delivery.
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Kindiki Responds to ODM’s Deputy President Bid, Dismisses Oburu Odinga’s Ambitions
