'I dare you to contradict the elders' - Kindiki tells off critics opposing Mt.Kenya kingpin endorsement

His endorsement on Saturday by community elders from the Gikuyu, Embu and Meru tribes crowned him to spearhead unity, reconciliation and development in the region.

Speaking at Gaciongo Market, in Tharaka Constituency, Kindiki said the endorsement was done by elders who are the authority on matters of culture among those communities, and political leaders cannot challenge their authority on that.

"30,000 elders from different clans in Mt.Kenya came to Kirigiti (stadium) and if there is anyone with an issue look for the elders, and if you think you are bold enough, I dare you to contradict what the elders have decided," he said.

He was speaking after inspecting construction works of Mukothima-Gatunga Road in Tharaka constituency, saying he would want to bring reforms to his backyard unlike Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

"You have been Vice President, but when you go home, you cover 200 kilometres of murram road. You have been a minister, yet you did not construct a road there," Kindiki said.

The Deputy President also called upon local leaders aligned to other political formations to cease and desist from attacking him, thinking it will bolster their political capital.

"Some brothers are attacking me here. Compete with those you will be running for political positions with. Do your job and focus on those you are contesting against," he noted.

His coronation has been met with harsh criticism from the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) which said political leadership is determined by the people rather than elders’ endorsement.

Led by DCP Secretary-General and Nyandarua Senator John Methu, the leaders mocked the ceremony, declaring that they reject Kindiki’s endorsement.

“This community had leaders like Dedan Kimathi we did not see elders sitting him down like an elder,” said Senator Methu.