Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has launched a scathing attack on opposition leaders, accusing them of arrogance and prioritising political theatrics over service delivery.

Speaking during a consultative engagement forum with Nyandarua County grassroots leaders at his official residence in Karen on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, Kindiki criticised opponents for engaging in a smear campaign aimed at undermining government efforts in the region.

This, he said, had divided the country into two groups: one committed to development and the other driven by incitement.

“We have two groups now. One group is focused on development, day and night, front and back, left and right. The other group is all about politics and incitement. They go around talking and inciting people, yet they have done nothing to help. Some of them were elected, but all they do is stir emotions,” he said.

Kindiki maintained that he and his allies are focused on fulfilling development promises and delivering on the government’s agenda, regardless of political distractions.

“We are very focused on delivering services to the people of Kenya, including those of Nyandarua. Some people want us to enter politics—we have refused. Not because we’re scared,” he stated.

“So don’t think we don’t know politics. We know it—and we’re better at it than some of those who keep lecturing us. There are some who think they’re the only ones who understand politics. Let’s meet ahead, my friend. They will see fire. They’ll see a long day ahead. But for now, I am focused,” he added.

Response to criticism

Responding to critiques regarding his performance, Kindiki challenged his political opponents to a future contest based on development records.

He accused some of neglecting development in favour of daily political rallies that, he claimed, yielded no benefits for citizens.

“I know that on campaign day, you’ll ask me questions: ‘You, Deputy President, during your time with the President, what did you accomplish during those years in office?’ Isn’t that so? You know I came in midway, when we saw the ship sinking, and our people being left in the dark. This work should have started on day one. But we lost two years fighting among ourselves. Government should not fight itself. The opposition is the one that challenges the government,” he said.

He emphasised that a good leader knows when to prioritise development projects over political confrontations.

“We know how to campaign. But a good leader starts with the interests of the people. You first push for roads, electricity, water, and prices for milk and potatoes. Then, when the campaign season comes, you remove your coat and tie, wear a t-shirt and cap, and go seek votes,” he said.

Stalled infrastructure projects

Addressing delays in infrastructure projects in Nyandarua, Kindiki attributed these setbacks to past economic challenges, assuring residents that funding has now been secured to resume work.

“The economy had slowed down, and our road projects stalled because we didn’t have enough money. But now the economy is improving. We’ve started paying contractors, and they are returning to the sites. Those who haven’t yet are on their way,” he stated.

Kindiki pledged to follow up on all projects in Nyandarua, reiterating that he has the President’s authority to supervise their implementation.

“My job is not to wait for the President to return. My job is to follow up on the President’s directives. As Deputy President, the President has given me the authority to call any Cabinet Secretary or Principal Secretary and give them instructions,” he stated.