TRANS NZOIA, Kenya – Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern warning to political leaders plotting to ascend to power through violence or unconstitutional means, insisting that Kenya’s leadership will only be decided through the ballot under the supervision of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Speaking during a women’s economic empowerment event in Trans Nzoia County, Kindiki said the government would not tolerate any attempts to destabilise the country for political gain.
“We will not allow power-hungry politicians to sink our country into chaos and anarchy. Those seeking shortcuts to leadership must calm down,” Kindiki said.
He dismissed any prospects of forceful takeovers, cautioning that incitement to violence, vandalism of public or private property, or attempts to invade government institutions would be dealt with firmly.
“Hakuna mtu tutaruhusu avamie police station, aingie Ikulu by force ama achochee uharibifu wa mali ya umma na ya kibinafsi ili aingie uongozini kwa lazima kupitia shortcut,” he added.
Kindiki’s remarks come amid rising political tensions and anti-government protests led by Gen Z youth and opposition-aligned groups.
The protests, which began last year, have highlighted public dissatisfaction with the high cost of living, corruption, and police brutality.
The DP pointed to the recent swearing-in of IEBC chair Erastus Ethekon and six new commissioners as a turning point, saying it sets the stage for a credible electoral process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“For a while, we did not have an IEBC due to disputes in court. Now the court has resolved those issues, and the commissioners are in office. IEBC is the referee. The responsibility of preparing for the election lies with the IEBC,” he said.
Kindiki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to respecting the independence of constitutional commissions and upholding the rule of law.
He also took a swipe at politicians who only engage with the public during election campaigns, accusing them of undermining voters by handing out token items such as reflectors and lesos instead of offering real solutions.
“This is the time to stand with the people through serious economic empowerment activities,” he said. “Those who wait for campaigns to issue cheap things only demonstrate their contempt for the electorate.”
