Why Ndindi Nyoro is unlikely to succeed Gachagua as deputy president

Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro. [Standard, File]

As Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faces an impending Senate trial following his impeachment by Parliament, several politicians from the Mount Kenya region are emerging as potential successors.

Among the names being discussed is Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, whose political future has become a topic of speculation.

 Nyoro’s silence has sparked debate, with many viewing it as a strategic move to position himself as a candidate for deputy president.

His track record as a second-term MP and his economic policies have garnered admiration from various political quarters.

 However, his past confrontations with Gachagua, particularly during the early days of the Kenya Kwanza administration, may prove to be a stumbling block. In one instance, Nyoro hit out at Gachagua for his perceived tribal rhetoric, urging him to unite the country instead of engaging in divisive politics.

“If we divide Kenyans on a tribal basis, all Kenyans lose and no one gains anything.

There is nothing to gain in negative ethnicity and tribalism, but there is everything to gain in the unity of all Kenyans,” he said in June.

He added, “For those leaders bestowed with leadership positions, let us look forward to a progressive Kenya that embraces everyone.”

 "Ndindi Nyoro has everything going for him. However, one thing stands in his way – he was among the first to criticise Gachagua, and though he later softened his stance, that could work against him," said Herman Manyora, a political analyst.

"President William Ruto may not pick someone who has previously attacked Gachagua or someone perceived as weak," he observed.

 Political analysts, including Manyora, have noted Nyoro’s close ties to Ruto, suggesting that the Kiharu MP’s loyalty could be both a strength and a weakness.

“Ruto is unlikely to choose someone who is seen as a 'yes-man'. Replacing Gachagua with someone who lacks political grit might send the wrong message to the Mount Kenya electorate,” said Manyora.

 Other names have surfaced as possible replacements for Gachagua, including Interior CS Kithure Kindiki, Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru.

All have been endorsed by sections of Mount Kenya leaders, citing their conciliatory leadership styles. Each contender brings a different dynamic to the table, but the common factor remains the need for someone who can maintain the delicate political balance within the region.

 Political analyst Mark Bichachi added a broader perspective, suggesting that President Ruto might not confine himself to tribal considerations when choosing Gachagua’s successor.

“Ruto could opt for a more national figure, someone who inspires Kenyans beyond regional affiliations. He has a chance to surprise the country with his choice, as he did with his previous appointments,” explained Bichachi.

 As the Senate gears up for its decision on Gachagua’s impeachment, the political tension within Mount Kenya continues to rise. Gachagua, who was impeached on Tuesday, October 8, after 281 MPs voted in favour of his removal, has vowed to fight for his position.

He faces 11 charges of gross misconduct, including accusations of money laundering and misusing his office to benefit his private businesses.

 Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, who tabled the impeachment motion, stated that Gachagua had abused his position to amass wealth through government tenders.

“In just two years, Gachagua has alienated himself from two administrations by using his influence for personal gain,” said Mutuse.

 The Senate’s final verdict on Thursday, October 17, will determine whether Gachagua’s political career ends or if he survives the mounting pressure from within his party and the political landscape.

At the same time, speculation over his potential replacement continues to dominate discussions in both political and public spheres.

 Nyoro’s supporters argue that his economic vision aligns with the Kenya Kwanza agenda, making him a suitable candidate for the deputy president role. However, as Manyora noted, “Replacing Gachagua will not be an easy task. It could bring trouble for the President, and navigating the country after that will be far from simple.”