STORY By STEPHEN LENKUME
From Grass to Grace is a powerful phrase that symbolizes a journey of transformation and upward mobility, where one rises from humble beginnings to achieve great success and recognition. It speaks to the struggles and challenges faced in the early stages of life or career, often characterized by hardship, poverty, or obscurity.
However, through resilience, determination, and perseverance, an individual overcomes these obstacles and reaches a place of accomplishment, respect, and prosperity. This journey is a testament to the potential within every person to rise above their circumstances and achieve greatness, no matter where they start. It embodies the hope that no matter how humble or difficult one's beginnings may be, the path to success is always within reach.
Abraham Kithure Kindiki, born on 17 July 1972, is a Kenyan politician, lawyer, and former law professor. He is the current Deputy President of Kenya, having assumed office on 1 November 2024, following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Before rising to the deputy presidency, Kindiki served as the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration from 2022 to 2024 and represented Tharaka-Nithi County in the Senate from 2013 to 2022. A strong focus on security reforms, citizen rights, and education within the Kenyan government has marked his career in public service.
Born and raised in Meru District, Kindiki attended Lenana School, where he initially struggled with his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), but retook the exam at Tharaka Boys High School, eventually gaining university admission. He pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree at Moi University, graduating in 1998. He then furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Laws (LLM) in International Human Rights Law and Democracy from the University of Pretoria in 2000, followed by a PhD in International Law from the same institution in 2002.
Kindiki began his academic career as a lecturer at Moi University and later the University of Nairobi, returning to Moi University in 2005 to lead the public law department.
Kindiki entered politics in 2013 when he was elected to represent Tharaka-Nithi County in the Senate. He served as the Senate's first Majority Leader and later became the Deputy Speaker after being reelected in 2017.
However, in 2020, his political career faced a setback when he was removed from the Deputy Speaker role due to his association with the then Deputy President William Ruto. Despite this, he continued to play a significant role in Kenyan politics and was appointed as the Cabinet Secretary for Interior in 2022. In this role, Kindiki focused on key security initiatives, such as modernizing the police and streamlining the e-passport system. His efforts also included advocating for the recognition of minority and stateless groups, improving national security, and promoting formal education for inmates.
In 2024, following Gachagua's impeachment, Kindiki was nominated by President William Ruto to be the Deputy President. Despite some legal challenges and a temporary halt to his swearing-in, he was officially sworn in as Kenya's third Deputy President on 1 November 2024. His appointment marked a significant milestone in his political journey, transitioning from a law professor and senator to the country's second-highest office.
On a personal level, Kindiki is married to Joyce Gatiiria Njagi, and they have three children, reflecting his more private side despite his prominent public role.
No matter our humble beginnings, we all have the potential to rise above our circumstances and achieve greatness.
The Feature Story Writer is a Second Year Student at Chuka University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication
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