This archive report was first published on 18 November 2021.
Deputy President William Ruto's campaign trail in Tharaka Nithi has been marked by controversy, with Tharaka Nithi Senator Kithure Kindiki at the centre of the storm.
On Wednesday, Kindiki was heckled by a rowdy crowd during a rally in Maara constituency, which neighbours his home town Tharaka Constituency.
The crowd, which seemed to be chanting in favour of current county Governor Muthomi Njuki, who declared support for ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga's 2022 presidential bid last month, disrupted Kindiki's speech.
After unsuccessfully attempting to calm down the angry locals, Kindiki was forced to cut his short speech and invite the more likeable county Woman Representative Beatrice Nkatha.
The incident occurred during the empowerment of small traders in Tharaka Nithi, which was attended by several leaders, including MP Mithika Linturi, Kithure Kindiki, Irungu Kang'ata, Patrick Munene, Kareke Mbiuki, Ndindi Nyoro, Beatrice Nkatha, George Murugara, Rigathi Gachagua, and Aisha Jumwa.
Kindiki's heckling is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding the senator, who has been at odds with President Uhuru Kenyatta.
During the tour, Kindiki delivered some tough words to his former boss, claiming that Uhuru had lied to and betrayed the people of Mt Kenya.
He urged residents not to be coerced into supporting Raila Odinga, whom he said is President Uhuru's candidate.
The incident has sparked debate on social media, with many calling for Kindiki to be more mindful of his words and actions.
