Kithure Kindiki: I have decided to take a break from active politics from August

Tharaka Nithi Senator Kithure Kindiki has announced that he has taken a break from active politics.

Kindindi made the announcement on Monday at the Tamarind Hotel in Karen where he held a presser.

"I have also decided to take a break from ACTIVE POLITICS starting August 10, 2022. I will not be seeking any elective or appointive position. However, I will be ready to serve my country in the future," Kindiki said.

His exit from active politics comes only hours after losing his bid to become Deputy President William Ruto’s running mate in the August election to Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua.

Kindiki revealed he earlier held a discussion with Gachagua albeit without disclosing what they discussed.

"Earlier today I had the privilege of having a conversation with Mr Gachagua. His brilliance has paid off at the party. I have wished him well and I have pledged my total and honest commitment to him and DP Ruto," Kindiki said.

The Tharaka Nithi Senator emphasised his candidature was not a personal venture but rather a national undertaking.

He also affirmed his stand in the UDA party and the Kenya Kwanza Alliance, adding he would help Ruto and Gachagua win the August election.

“After soul searching, I have decided to remain in the alliance and subordinate myself to DP Ruto and Mr Rigathi,” he said. 

Kindiki noted he performed better than Gachagua in the opinion polls, which he said was not the only criteria applied to arrive at the decision that saw Gachagua get picked as Ruto’s deputy.

He also expressed that he does not feel shortchanged at all.

“It is true that I did better than my brother in the opinion polls, but that was not the only criteria used in the sum total of the decision. I don't feel shortchanged. The decision to quit county politics was mine and the party’s,” Kindiki said.