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Mbeere North MP Njeru Leo Wamuthende has rejected the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) call to be given the Deputy President position in the next general elections.
Responding to the proposal during ongoing political talks, Wamuthende said the Deputy President’s seat is already occupied and functioning effectively, making ODM’s request impractical.
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“On the UDA side, we have a Deputy President, Prof. Abraham Kithure Kindiki, who is actively supporting the President. ODM’s wish is noted, but it’s better to focus on positions that are open or negotiable,” he stated.
He emphasized that UDA’s leadership remains firm, with William Ruto serving as party leader and President, and Kithure Kindiki as Deputy President.
Wamuthende explained that the UDA National Governing Council, in a meeting chaired by President Ruto on January 27, 2026, agreed to explore collaborations with like-minded parties, including ODM, where political interests align. However, he stressed that such discussions do not guarantee acceptance of every request.
“When parties express their wishes in talks, it’s fine, but we already have a President and a Deputy performing their roles effectively; you don’t change what is working,” Wamuthende added.
He noted that coalition partners can present expectations, but these must be practical and mindful of existing structures. He argued that ODM’s demand ignores that Kindiki continues to execute his duties efficiently in support of the President.
Wamuthende cited a recent meeting where President Ruto praised Kindiki as a dependable and loyal partner, highlighting the strong trust the President places in him and making any replacement in future coalitions unlikely.
The MP insisted that the Deputy President role should not be treated as a bargaining chip and urged parties to focus on cooperation in areas that strengthen unity without destabilizing current leadership.
He acknowledged ODM’s statement that it will not field a presidential candidate in a potential coalition but reiterated that seeking the Deputy President slot is not negotiable.
“ODM has said it won’t contest the presidency, which we respect. However, we stand firmly behind our Deputy President,” Wamuthende concluded, emphasizing that while UDA welcomes partnerships with aligned parties, the Deputy President position remains off the table.
