Currently, Kindiki is undergoing a thorough examination by the National Assembly Committee on Appointments, which is led by Speaker Moses Wetangula.
This committee is responsible for vetting his suitability for the position, especially in light of the public's heightened demand for transparency and rigorous investigation into the financial dealings of government officials.
Kindiki has strongly defended his financial growth, attributing it to his successful legal practice. He firmly states that his increased wealth has no ties to any government contracts or deals.
"The rise in my net worth is mainly due to my work as a lawyer. I have not done any business with the government, directly or indirectly," he said during the vetting process on August 1.
He further explained that a significant part of his wealth increase came from a substantial payment received from a long-time client of his law firm. This settlement of an old debt has considerably boosted his financial standing.
"My income comes from my legal fees and consulting work. None of it is from public funds, except for my official salary and allowances," Kindiki emphasized.
Back in 2022, during his previous vetting, Kindiki had declared that his net worth was composed of land and buildings valued at around Ksh165 million, with the rest being in bank deposits, shares, and investments in various savings cooperatives totaling approximately Ksh50 million.
The scrutiny of Kindiki's finances is part of a broader trend of increased vigilance over the financial statuses of government officials.
Many Kenyans are keenly observing the vetting process, especially given the large sums of money involved and the public's demand for accountability and transparency.
Other cabinet nominees have also revealed their net worths. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi reported a net worth of Ksh4 billion, making him one of the wealthiest nominees.
Public Service CS nominee Justin Muturi declared Ksh700 million, while Environment CS nominee Aden Duale reported Ksh851 million. Labour CS nominee Alfred Mutua has a net worth of Ksh420 million, and Water and Sanitation CS nominee Alice Wahome disclosed Ksh218 million.
During the vetting process, Kindiki also addressed other concerns. For instance, he was questioned about the promises made regarding the rapid processing of passports.
He acknowledged that the initial promise of a three-day processing time has been delayed but assured that steps are being taken to meet this commitment soon.
He also faced questions about his silence during the two-month anti-government demonstrations. Kindiki explained that his decision to remain silent was strategic, aimed at maintaining peace and order during a tense period. He believed that speaking out could have escalated the situation further.
In addition to these issues, Kindiki's role and actions during his time in office have been closely monitored. For example, his visit to Kijabe in Kiambu County on May 7, 2024, to assess local police stations was seen as a step towards improving security and law enforcement in the area.
Similarly, his inspection of new passport printing machines at Nyayo House on May 13, 2024, demonstrated his commitment to modernizing and streamlining government services.
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