JUJA, Kenya – Ndia Member of Parliament George Kariuki has declared his intention to seek the Deputy President’s position in the 2027 General Election, signalling his interest in deputising President William Ruto if the Head of State secures a second term.
Speaking at Ndaraca Grounds in Juja Constituency on Monday, October 12, 2026, Kariuki said all elective positions, including the presidency and deputy presidency, would be contested in the 2027 elections.
He said Ruto would have to return to the electorate to seek a fresh mandate, adding that he would also pursue the country’s second-highest office.
“There is no seat that will not be vacant in 2027, including the President’s seat. He will come back to the people to seek a fresh mandate to lead the people. The Deputy President’s position will be vacant as well,” Kariuki said.
The MP said he would work towards securing the position and urged Kenyans to support his bid when he formally seeks their backing.
“I will be pushing to secure the seat, and I hope when I come to seek support, you will accord it to me,” he added.
Kariuki’s declaration comes as political leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election, with the question of who will deputise Ruto expected to feature in discussions within his political camp.
Mwea MP Defends Kindiki, Warns Against Deputy President Bid
Meanwhile, Mwea MP Mary Maingi has defended Deputy President Kithure Kindiki amid reported ambitions by Kariuki and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru for the country’s second-highest office.
Speaking on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Wang’uru Stadium in Mwea during the finals of the Mary Maingi Football Tournament, Maingi backed Kindiki, describing him as the rightful occupant of the office.
She insisted that the Deputy President’s position was not vacant as long as Kindiki remained in office, warning leaders seeking the position against creating the impression that it was available.
“Even if you insist, we always consistently say that the Deputy President position is not vacant. Saying that it is vacant means it is open to other people,” Maingi said.
Her remarks highlight emerging differences over the deputy presidency as leaders begin signalling their ambitions ahead of the 2027 polls.
While Kariuki has publicly expressed interest in the position, Maingi has maintained that Kindiki remains the serving Deputy President and should continue to occupy the office.
