Kindiki takes break after losing running mate bid
Tharaka Nithi Senator Professor Kindiki Kithure has announced that he will take a break from elective politics after his term as Senator lapses in August.
Addressing the media after Deputy President William Ruto snubbed him for the running mate position, Prof Kindiki said that he would remain in Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
"After soul-searching, I have decided to remain in UDA and the Kenya Kwanza Alliance. I have decided to take a break from active politics starting Aug 10," Prof Kindiki said.
He also declared that he will not take any appointment in Ruto's government in case the second in command wins the August polls.
"I will not be seeking any appointive position whatsoever. However, I will be available to seek any position in future that may be available at the national level."
Kindiki, who was absent at the event that Ruo named Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua as his running mate, said that he was satisfied with the process used to choose Ruto's running mate.
"I am extremely satisfied with the process followed to get a running mate.I have wished him well and pledged to support him and Deputy President Willam Ruto. At this moment when our country is at the cusp of change, I will join His Excellency Deputy President William Ruto and Rigathi Gachagua to deliver a decisive victory," he added.
Gachagua and Kindiki emerged as the two most favourite candidates to deputise Ruto, with most leaders allied to Ruto preferring Kindiki over Gachagua.
Ruto stated that Gachagua scored highly in every parameter that was used to reach a suitable candidate to aid him in captaining the Kenya Kwanza ship.
The Deputy President heaped praises on the lawmaker, describing him as an astute debater, a loyal ally and a talented ground mobilizer.
"Ladies and gentlemen that good Kenyan, my friend who I have worked with, especially in the economic model, I present to you the Kenya Kwanza running mate candidate my brother and friend Rigathi Gachagua," Ruto announced.
On the other hand, Ruto just announced Kindiki's absence, without giving much detail.
