Nairobi, 18th October 2024 – Following the dramatic removal of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua by the Senate, the nation is now focused on the urgent task of selecting his replacement. The nomination of a new deputy president is a significant political event, one that not only affects the current administration but also has broader implications for the upcoming 2027 general elections.

Under the Kenyan Constitution, President William Ruto must nominate a new deputy president within 14 days of the position becoming vacant. The nominee will then face vetting and approval by both the National Assembly and the Senate within seven days. This swift process ensures that the deputy president position is filled promptly, maintaining stability in government.

Who Are the Likely Successors?

As speculation swirls, political analysts are already weighing in on the potential candidates. Several names have emerged as strong contenders for the deputy president role:

1. Kithure Kindiki – Currently serving as the Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kindiki has long been considered one of President Ruto’s most trusted allies. He is well-regarded for his calm demeanor and administrative skills. Kindiki, who hails from Tharaka-Nithi County, would also help balance regional dynamics, particularly in Mount Kenya, where Gachagua's influence was strong.
2. Musalia Mudavadi – The Prime Cabinet Secretary and a key figure in the Kenya Kwanza coalition, Mudavadi brings significant political experience and a wide support base, especially in Western Kenya. Analysts suggest that elevating Mudavadi could strengthen the coalition's support in this vote-rich region, making him a strategic choice for the deputy presidency.
3. Alice Wahome – Currently the Water Cabinet Secretary, Wahome is another name being floated for the position. As one of the prominent female leaders in the coalition, her nomination could appeal to the gender balance and diversity considerations within the administration, while also ensuring continued representation from Mount Kenya.
4. Ndindi Nyoro – A vocal Ruto loyalist and an MP from Kiharu, Nyoro is seen as a rising star in the Kenya Kwanza coalition. Although younger and less experienced than some other contenders, Nyoro's strong grassroots support and his alignment with the "hustler nation" agenda could make him an appealing choice for the future leadership of the country.

Political Considerations

Whoever President Ruto nominates will likely reflect a balancing act between appeasing key regional blocs and solidifying his base ahead of the 2027 elections. With Mount Kenya playing a critical role in previous elections, political observers believe that the next deputy president will likely come from the region to retain the support of this important voting bloc.

Kenya’s political scene is now watching closely to see who will emerge as the next deputy president, a decision that could significantly shape the country’s political future as it heads toward the next general elections. The nominee will also face the challenge of stepping into the shoes of an ousted deputy president in a time of heightened political tension.