2025 was a defining year for Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as he navigated high-stakes politics, national security challenges, and governance reforms.

His actions throughout the year reinforced his growing influence within government and the ruling party.

By-election banter  

In the campaign ahead of the November 27 polls, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki drew national attention during the Mbeere North by-election campaigns while rallying support for UDA candidate Leonard Wamuthende.

Speaking in Mbeere, Kindiki used sharp political banter to contrast UDA’s leadership with that of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who had earlier taken part in door-to-door campaigns in the area.

Kindiki deployed his slogan fire si fire, and Wamuthende ni fire is fire, which has actually resonated well with the electorare helping cement his political vet.

The exchange highlighted growing political rivalry within the ruling alliance and showed Kindiki’s confidence on the campaign trail as he positioned himself as a key mobiliser for UDA ahead of future elections.

Chairing Raila’s State funeral

In a significant national assignment, Kindiki was appointed to co-chair the state funeral committee for the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, alongside Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother.

The committee oversaw all aspects of the elaborate state farewell, including the return of Raila’s body from India, the State Requiem Mass, public viewings, daily updates, and the burial arrangements.

This role placed Kindiki at the centre of one of Kenya’s most high-profile national events of the year, showcasing his responsibilities in both ceremonial and administrative capacities.

Diplomatic representation amid regional tensions

On November 3, 2025, Kindiki represented Ruto at the swearing-in ceremony of Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, a high-profile event held amid regional tensions over election-related violence in Tanzania.

His attendance drew criticism from some quarters, with detractors arguing that Kenya should have more forcefully defended its position after being accused of involvement in orchestrating the protests.

Despite the criticism, Kindiki maintained a composed and statesmanlike presence, delivering a strong, measured speech that emphasised Kenya’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation.

Ruto applauding Kindiki

Throughout 2025, Kindiki consistently shaped national conversations around development, unity, and long-term nation-building.

While addressing leaders and citizens across the country, including engagements in Uasin Gishu, he emphasised the importance of investing in children’s welfare, national values, and social cohesion as foundations for sustainable development.

His broadened policy focus, stretching beyond security to human capital development, earned public commendation from President William Ruto.

On several occasions, including meetings with teachers at State House and other official fora, President Ruto openly praised Kindiki’s performance, describing him as the “best deputy,” and citing his discipline, clarity in communication, and commitment to government priorities as key assets to the administration.

Public scrutiny over health and visibility

Towards the end of the year, Kindiki faced intense public and media scrutiny after missing major public events, including the Baringo Cultural Festival and the Kimalel Goat Auction, due to illness.

Amid widespread speculation, he dismissed it, saying that he was in good health, an episode highlighting the political sensitivity of visibility for national leaders.

Ruto also took the opportunity to clarify Kindiki’s absences, explaining that he had specifically assigned the Deputy President to hold meetings with stakeholders in regions experiencing drought and other humanitarian crises.

These engagements, Ruto noted, were critical to coordinating relief efforts and ensuring that government interventions were timely and effective, underlining Kindiki’s active role in managing urgent national challenges even while away from public events.