Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr on Monday revealed details of his relationship with Interior CS Kithure Kindiki.
Referring to him as a true friend, Kilonzo said that during the pre-August 2022 campaigns, he hoped that Kindiki would be picked as President William Ruto’s running mate.
The chance was handed to current deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
“Mimi nilikuwa namwombea akuwe kitu ingine. I was praying for him to become the deputy President and he knows. He was praying for me to get the gubernatorial seat,” he said.
The Governor showered the Interior CS with praises stating he defended Makueni’s position when it came to allocation of funds.
“Professor Kindiki is available whenever I need him. From our working relations at the Senate,” he added.
“The reason why I celebrate you and I must tell the people of Makueni is that when there was war at the Senate and Makueni was to lose funds, Kindiki stood with us despite being on the government side. He is a friend.”
Kindiki who was then Tharaka Nithi Senator is said to have won in both the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Electoral College and opinion polls conducted to pick Ruto’s running mate.
He said his competitor might have had an advantage due to other factors that were equally considered.
“I did better than my brother in electoral college but there were others that led to my opponent being handed the position,” the former Senate Deputy Speaker said.
Despite losing the slot to Gachagua, Kindiki said he would remain loyal to UDA and support Ruto’s presidential campaign.
“I urge those who supported my candidature to support our team so that we have a decisive victory. My candidature was not about me. After prayerful soul searching I have decided to be loyal to UDA and Kenya Kwanza Alliance,” he said.
“I have wished him (Gachagua) well and pledged my commitment to support him and our party leader William Ruto. I associate myself with the rigorous and consultative process of the running mate slot,” Kindiki added.
