The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) has appointed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as its new Deputy Party Leader, effective immediately.
This decision follows a series of constitutional and party-led actions that resulted in the removal of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from the role.
On Monday morning, UDA’s NEC convened to finalize the leadership change, formally replacing Gachagua, who had previously held the deputy party leader position.
UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire and Secretary General Hassan Omar confirmed the committee’s decision, explaining that Gachagua’s impeachment last month rendered him ineligible to continue serving as the deputy leader.
Gachagua was initially impeached by the National Assembly on October 8, 2024. His impeachment was subsequently upheld by the Senate on October 17, with more than two-thirds of Senators voting in favour of the charges.
The impeachment was officially communicated through Gazette Notice No. 13400, effectively removing Gachagua from office as Deputy President of Kenya, in line with Articles 145(7) and 75(3) of the Constitution.
In accordance with Article 147(1), Article 145(7), and Article 75(3) of the Kenyan Constitution, alongside Article 24.3 of the UDA Party Constitution, the NEC determined that Gachagua’s impeachment meant he was no longer able to fulfil the responsibilities of Deputy Party Leader.
Therefore, under Article 8.2 of the UDA Constitution, the NEC resolved to appoint Kithure Kindiki to the position, filling the leadership vacancy.
Upon his appointment, Kindiki expressed his gratitude and pledged unwavering loyalty to the party.
He affirmed his dedication to collaborating with various institutions to address challenges facing both the party and the nation.
“I assure you of my steadfast commitment to the ideals of our party. I will engage with all structures outlined in our party’s constitution to enhance our party’s effectiveness,” he stated.
Kindiki acknowledged the significance of assuming this role during a pivotal moment for the country, reiterating the UDA’s mission to promote unity across all Kenyan communities.
“Kenya’s unity poses no threat to the diverse groups that make up our nation,” he added.
