The Deputy President (DP) is the principal assistant to the President and plays a key role in the executive arm of the government. The 2010 Constitution changed the title from Vice President to Deputy President, making the position elective rather than appointed.
The Deputy President cannot hold any other state or public office.
🔹 Functions of the Deputy President
📌 1. Principal Assistant to the President
✔ Deputizes the President in performing presidential functions.
✔ Acts as a link between the executive and other arms of government.
📌 2. Performs Presidential Functions Assigned by the President
✔ Carries out duties delegated by the President.
✔ Assists in policy implementation.
📌 3. Acts as President When Necessary
✔ Takes charge when the President is absent or incapacitated (Article 134).
✔ Cannot exercise certain presidential powers, including:
- Appointing/dismissing judges and public officers
- Appointing/dismissing Cabinet Secretaries and Ambassadors
- Granting presidential pardons
- Conferring state honours
📌 4. Assumes the Presidency If the President Leaves Office
✔ Becomes President for the remainder of the term if:
- The President dies.
- The President is impeached or resigns.
📌 5. Chairs the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC)
✔ Coordinates national and county government financial matters.
✔ Engages in resource allocation discussions.
📌 6. Chairs the National and County Government Coordinating Summit (in the absence of the President)
✔ Ensures smooth coordination between national and county governments.
📌 7. Represents the President in Official Functions (when assigned)
✔ Attends state functions both locally and internationally.
✔ Engages in diplomatic relations on behalf of the President.
📌 Key Takeaways
✔ The Deputy President is the second-in-command in Kenya’s government.
✔ The DP acts as President when the President is away or incapacitated.
✔ If the President’s office becomes vacant, the DP takes over as President.
✔ Chairs IBEC & Intergovernmental Summits to coordinate national and county affairs.
✔ Cannot appoint/dismiss public officials or grant pardons while acting as President.
📌 Conclusion:
The Deputy President of Kenya plays a crucial role in governance, administration, and policy implementation, ensuring stability in leadership. 🚀
