Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has challenged politicians questioning his endorsement by Mt Kenya elders as the region’s spokesman, telling them to take their objections to the cultural leaders who made the decision.
Speaking at Gaciongo Market in Tharaka Constituency, Kindiki said the elders represent cultural institutions from the Kikuyu, Meru, Embu and Mbeere communities and have a role in matters concerning their unity and representation.
He said the group involved in the endorsement included representatives of Kiama Kia Ma, the Kikuyu Council of Elders, Njuri Ncheke, Kiama Kia Muembu, Ngome and Nyangi Ndiriri.
Furthermore, Kindiki invoked the historical significance of Kirigiti, where he said elders had previously gathered to identify Jomo Kenyatta as a leader capable of representing the region.
“If there is someone who has a case, take it to the elders. If you have an issue, meet with the elders there and talk to them, and if you feel like you are very famous, I dare you to contradict what the elders have decided. I dare you.”
The remarks came a day after elders from the four communities gathered at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County and endorsed Kindiki as their spokesman and representative, saying they sought greater unity among the communities.
The declaration has drawn criticism from some politicians who have questioned whether traditional elders can make a decision representing the wider Mt Kenya population, raising debate over the role of cultural leaders in regional political affairs.
Kindiki dismissed suggestions that the endorsement was linked to his pursuit of an elective position in Meru, saying he was not seeking the governor, senator or parliamentary seats.
“I am not standing for the seat of Governor. I am not seeking the seat of Governor or Senator or MP you are asking me what? Go and compete with those you are competing with.”
He criticised political insults directed at him and urged politicians to focus on those they are directly competing against, and said he would continue working with leaders regardless of their electoral outcomes.
“If he defeats you, come, and I will look for a job for you, you who have fallen. If you defeat him, that person from UDA, let me take him, and I will look for a job for him.”
The Deputy President’s remarks come as the elders’ endorsement places the question of political representation in Mt Kenya at the centre of regional debate ahead of the 2027 General Election.
