Kindiki warns against coup plots, recalls 1982 and 2007 chaos
By Kenneth Mwenda, June 27, 2025Deputy President Kithure Kindiki issued a stern warning against any attempts to destabilise Kenya, speaking at an economic empowerment engagement in Kanyange, Kitui Rural Constituency, Kitui County.
The event, on Friday, 27 June 2025, aimed at supporting women, youth, and small-scale traders, was part of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s ongoing efforts to boost grassroots economic development.
However, Kindiki’s speech took a firm tone as he addressed growing concerns about political rhetoric and actions that could threaten national stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kindiki’s remarks come against a backdrop of heightened political tension in Kenya. Recent months have seen opposition figures, notably former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accused of divisive politics and early campaigning.
During his speech, Kindiki referenced past periods of unrest, specifically the 1982 coup attempt and the 2007 post-election violence, urging Kenyans to learn from history.
“Hakuna mtu ako na ruhusa ya kujaribu mapinduzi ama kujaribu kuhujumu usalama na udhabiti wa taifa la Kenya. Kwa sababu tumekuwa hapo mbeleni, 1982, 2007, na haiwezekani Kenya kila saa Mungu akitupea nafasi ya kusoma somo, hatusomi lile somo tunangojea tunakua na kisa kile tena,” he said in Swahili, saying,
Translated, this means: “No one has permission to attempt a coup or to undermine the security and stability of the nation of Kenya. Because we’ve been there before, in 1982, 2007, and it’s not possible that every time God gives us a chance to learn a lesson, we fail to learn it and wait for such an event to happen again.”
He further assured Kenyans that the government respects citizens’ rights, including freedom of expression and the press, as enshrined in the Constitution. However, he emphasised the state’s responsibility to protect national security.
“Sisi tutaheshimu uhuru wa wananchi, uhuru wa vyombo vya habari, lakini vile vile tutalinda usalama na udhabiti wa taifa.”
Translation, “We will respect the freedom of citizens and the media, but we will also protect the security and stability of the nation.”
Kindiki warned that the government would not tolerate actions that incite fear or violence, referencing recent incidents where police stations were targeted.
“Wakimaliza kuattack police station wataenda kutafutana na jeshi yetu,”
Meaning “Once they’re done attacking police stations, they will go after our military.”
Ukambani development agenda
The Deputy President’s visit to Kitui is part of a broader charm offensive in the Ukambani region, traditionally a stronghold of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
Kindiki has been spearheading empowerment drives across Machakos, Kitui, and Makueni, promoting government projects like modern markets, affordable housing, and last-mile electricity connections.
Kindiki’s message was clear: the government is focused on development, not politicking.
He urged leaders to prioritise service delivery over divisive rhetoric, warning that those inciting unrest would face a tough battle in 2027. His remarks reflect the Kenya Kwanza administration’s push for unity and economic progress, while firmly addressing threats to national stability.