President William Ruto has vigorously defended his decision to appoint former allies of ex-President Uhuru Kenyatta to key government positions, asserting that the moves are essential for promoting national unity and advancing his administration’s transformative agenda.
Speaking at a church service in Uasin Gishu County, Ruto addressed concerns over his recent cabinet reshuffle, arguing that a diverse government will better address the pressing issues facing Kenyans.
“I broadened the government further by bringing in some new people so that we can promote unity and understanding,” Ruto stated. He emphasized that the appointees will play a pivotal role in executing the government’s ambitions, including creating jobs and improving the quality of life for citizens.
“Our focus is not solely political but geared towards transformation,” he added, signaling his commitment to a government that prioritizes development over political affiliations.
The president’s remarks come hot on the heels of significant changes within his cabinet, which included the appointments of former Health CS Mutahi Kagwe as Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, Lee Kinyanjui as the cabinet secretary for Trade, and William Kabogo for Information Communication and Technology (ICT).
Other notable reshuffles feature Kipchumba Murkomen as CS for Interior and Coordination, and Salim Mvurya as the new CS for Sports.
President William Ruto has made significant appointments including former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth as the chairperson of the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) National Standards Council.
Ruto also appointed Mwangi wa Iria to lead the Public Procurement Regulatory Board, further expanding his cabinet. In another notable move, Noor Yaror Gabow has been designated as the Consular General for the soon-to-be-established consulate in Haiti, signaling Kenya’s growing diplomatic engagements.
Other key appointments announced by Principal Administrative Secretary to the Head of Public Service, Arthur Osiya, include Gerald Nyaoma Arita as the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, a position crucial for steering the country’s monetary policy.
In a broader reshuffle within the Executive Office of the President, Ruto further appointed four advisors: Professor Adams G.R. Oloo as an advisor for strategy and communication, Dr. Silvester Okumu Kasuku as a governance advisor, Major (Rtd) Ali Mahat Somane as an advisor on security affairs in the National Security Advisor’s office, and Joe Owaka Ager as the Secretary of Governance.
“These appointments within the Executive Office of the President seek to augment the complement of personnel supporting the Head of State and Government in fulfilling the profound mandate vested in the nation’s foremost office,” the notice stated.
Additionally, Bruno Oguda Obodha has been appointed as the Managing Director of East African Portland Cement Company PLC, while Douglas Murei Kaibos takes the helm as the CEO of the Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency.
These nominations arrive shortly after a surprise meeting between Ruto and Kenyatta at the latter’s residence in Ichaweri, sparking speculation about a potential political reconciliation after a tumultuous year marked by division.
Despite the controversy surrounding these appointments, Ruto maintains that his administration has already fulfilled key promises made during his campaign and remains committed to the welfare of all Kenyans.
