Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern warning to political leaders inciting violence in the Mt Kenya region, declaring that recent acts of looting and destruction will not be tolerated under the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Speaking in Meru on Wednesday, July 31, 2025, during a consultative meeting with county leaders, the DP condemned the unrest witnessed during recent protests, which led to the destruction of businesses and property in parts of the region.
“We have had many politicians before competing over ideologies, but we have never witnessed the kind of destruction we saw recently. Why have we stooped this low as a community?” Kindiki questioned.
He urged residents to reject leaders seeking to create chaos for personal political gain, noting that elections should be based on policy and development records—not incitement.
‘What Happened Was the Last Time’ – Kindiki
Referring directly to the widespread looting and property damage, Kithure Kindiki assured Mt Kenya business owners that such lawlessness would not be allowed to recur.
“Many of these businesspeople built their businesses from scratch… it has taken them decades to reach where they are, only for some misguided people to destroy it. What occurred the last few days was the last time it was happening,” he emphasized.
Focus on Development in Meru County
The Deputy President used the platform to reaffirm the government’s commitment to development in the Mt Kenya region, outlining major ongoing and upcoming projects in Meru County.
Key highlights include:
- Construction of 21 modern markets, including the Gakoromone market, which he said will be the largest fresh produce market in Kenya, with a budget of KSh 800 million.
- Last-mile electricity connectivity funded at KSh 2.2 billion, targeting rural homes and trading centres.
- Elevation of Meru Referral Hospital to Level 6 status, a project to be undertaken by the Kenya Defence Forces as per President William Ruto’s directive.
- Road construction, tarmacking, and urban development projects across the county.
“We are focused on development because we want to have a scorecard. When we seek reelection, we will show you the number of roads tarmacked, homes connected to electricity, and hospitals upgraded,” said Kindiki.
DP Promotes SHA Health Coverage
Kindiki also encouraged Meru residents to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA) program, a key government initiative aimed at ensuring universal health coverage.
“Zamani tulikuwa tunasema Linda mama pekee. Sasa tunasema linda mama, linda mzee, linda kijana, linda watoto, linda jamii kupitia SHA,” he said, noting that the health reforms will benefit all Kenyans regardless of age or income level.
