Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has drawn a firm line in the sand regarding the 2027 succession politics, telling off ODM leaders who are eyeing the Deputy Presidency. Ruku categorically stated that the seat is occupied by Kithure Kindiki and will remain so until at least 2032, dismissing any ambitious maneuvering within the broad-based government.

The rebuke comes in response to Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga’s recent remarks suggesting that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) would demand the Deputy President’s slot as a condition for their continued partnership with President William Ruto. Ruku’s sharp rejoinder serves as a reminder that while the "handshake" government has brought stability, the internal power dynamics of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) remain non-negotiable regarding the second-in-command.

The 2027 Power Calculus

Ruku’s statement highlights the friction inherent in the current political marriage. "It is not vacant," Ruku declared, emphasizing that the agreement with ODM was for national unity, not a power-sharing deal that displaces the President’s loyal deputy. This stance reinforces Kindiki’s position as the heir apparent and warns coalition partners against overreaching.

Oburu Oginga, known for his candid political pronouncements, had earlier intimated that ODM’s support in 2027 would come with a heavy price tag. However, following the backlash, the Senator has since clarified his position, stating that his comments were misinterpreted and that the party respects the current hierarchy. This walk-back suggests that the ODM leadership is keen to avoid rocking the boat too early in the alliance.

• The Red Line: CS Ruku insists that Kithure Kindiki is the Deputy President for the 2027-2032 term, closing the door on ODM`s ambitions for the number two slot.
• Coalition Tensions: The exchange exposes the underlying jostling for power within the broad-based government as 2027 approaches.
• Oburu`s U-Turn: The Siaya Senator was forced to clarify that the party is not aggressively targeting Kindiki`s seat, de-escalating the potential conflict.

Unity vs. Ambition

The incident underscores the delicate balancing act President Ruto must perform. While he needs ODM’s support to maintain a broad-based government, he cannot afford to alienate his core base and his Deputy. Ruku’s intervention was likely sanctioned to reassure the Mount Kenya region and UDA loyalists that their stake in the presidency is secure.

As the 2027 election cycle draws nearer, these skirmishes over positions are expected to intensify. For now, the message from the Public Service CS is clear: the vacancy sign is not up at the Deputy President’s office, and any coalition talks must respect the current incumbency.