Kithure Kindiki has been officially sworn in as Kenya’s new Deputy President, following weeks of legal challenges and political turbulence, Al Jazeera reports.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, was attended by President William Ruto, diplomats, and an estimated 100,000 people.
Kindiki’s path to the vice presidency was paved with legal battles initiated by his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached by parliament in October. Gachagua challenged his removal and Kindiki’s subsequent nomination, filing over 30 legal challenges. However, the court ultimately lifted the stay order on Thursday, citing the constitutional requirement that the position of Deputy President should not remain vacant.
Gachagua’s impeachment stemmed from accusations of gross violation of the constitution and stirring ethnic hatred, charges he vehemently denied, labeling them politically motivated.
The inauguration was preceded by weeks of political upheaval in Kenya, marked by nationwide protests against tax hikes in June and subsequent political realignment. In July, President Ruto attempted to ease tensions by including opposition members in his cabinet, creating a “unity government.”
Gachagua’s impeachment and subsequent legal battles further amplified the political divisions within the governing United Democratic Alliance (UDA). He was accused of insubordination for opposing the government’s forced eviction policy during recent flooding.
Kindiki, a former law professor and senator from the Mount Kenya region, had been a leading contender to be Ruto’s running mate during the 2022 election. He was initially appointed as the Interior Minister, a role now filled by Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi following Kindiki’s elevation.
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