Government Dismisses Reports of Charlene Ruto Being Appointed Parastatal Chairperson

Written By Lisa Murimi

The Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs has refuted claims circulating on social media regarding the appointment of Charlene Ruto as Chairperson of the National Mining Corporation. 

The ministry clarified the misinformation through an official statement, labeling the notice, which had been widely shared online, as “fake.”

To dispel the rumors, the ministry shared the authentic gazette notice, which revealed Joseph Kipchumba Lagat as the official appointee. 

The genuine notice, signed by President William Ruto, reads: 

“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 25 (1) (a) of the Mining Act, 2016, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya… appoint JOSEPH KIPCHUMBA LAGAT as Chairperson of the National Mining Corporation for three years from October 4, 2024.”

The fake notice, which falsely named Charlene Ruto, daughter of the president, stirred debate online, with many Kenyans criticizing the alleged nepotism. 

However, a careful inspection revealed the notice had been doctored, altering only the name.

Despite the ministry’s clarification, some Kenyans remain uncertain about the truth, reflecting the ongoing skepticism fueled by social media misinformation.