Professor Kithure Kindiki is a distinguished Kenyan politician, lawyer, and academic with a deep history in law and governance.
He was born on July 17, 1972, in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Kindiki rose to prominence through his expertise in constitutional law and has built a reputation as one of Kenya’s top legal minds.
Education
Kindiki holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from Moi University, a Master of Laws (LL.M) in International Human Rights Law from the University of Pretoria, and a Doctor of Laws (LL.D) in International Law from the University of Pretoria.
His academic career began as a lecturer, eventually becoming an Associate Professor of Law at the University of Nairobi.
Legal Career
In the legal field, Kindiki is known for his work as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
His legal expertise has been instrumental in several constitutional matters, including advising on legal frameworks in international law and human rights.
He has also authored several papers and publications on law and governance.
Political Career
Kindiki’s political career began in 2013 when he was elected as the Senator for Tharaka Nithi County, marking the beginning of his rise in national politics.
Before entering elective politics, Kindiki had already established himself as a respected academic and legal expert, specializing in constitutional and international law.
Key Milestones in Kindiki’s Political Career:
- 2013 – Elected as Tharaka Nithi Senator: Kindiki made his debut in elective politics during Kenya’s 2013 General Election, representing the newly created Tharaka Nithi County under the Jubilee Party.
His legal background and close ties to William Ruto, who was Deputy President at the time, helped him gain significant support.
- 2013-2017 – Senate Majority Leader: Shortly after being elected senator, Kindiki was appointed the Senate Majority Leader, where he became a key figure in pushing the ruling party’s agenda through the Senate.
He oversaw government business, facilitated the passage of crucial bills, and ensured the smooth operation of legislative processes.
- 2017 – Re-elected as Tharaka Nithi Senator: Kindiki was re-elected for a second term in the 2017 General Election, further solidifying his influence in the Senate and the broader Kenyan political scene.
- 2020 – Senate Deputy Speaker Impeachment: In 2020, Kindiki was impeached as the Senate’s Deputy Speaker, largely due to internal political realignments within the Jubilee Party.
He was seen as a loyal ally of William Ruto amid growing tensions between Ruto and then-President Uhuru Kenyatta.
- 2022 – Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration: After the 2022 General Election, in which William Ruto was elected President, Kindiki was appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration.
In this role, he was responsible for overseeing national security, law enforcement, and the coordination of government activities.
- 2024 – Nominated as Deputy President: In a significant political development, President William Ruto nominated Prof.
Kithure Kindiki to replace Rigathi Gachagua as the Deputy President of Kenya.
This nomination underscores Kindiki’s close relationship with President Ruto and his growing influence within the country’s political landscape.
Personal Life
Kindiki is married and has children.
He is known for his reserved nature, strong work ethic, and dedication to public service.
Despite his high-profile political career, Kindiki has managed to maintain a low-key personal life.
Legacy
Throughout his career, Prof. Kindiki has been recognized for his legal acumen, his contributions to Kenya’s governance, and his role in shaping constitutional frameworks.
His nomination as Deputy President is seen as a continuation of his rise in Kenya’s political landscape and a testament to his disciplined and competent leadership.
President Ruto Nominates Prof. Kithure Kindiki As New Deputy President