President William Ruto on Wednesday unveiled his final list of Cabinet nominees, drawing individuals from a diverse spectrum of political backgrounds.
This strategic decision aims to create a government that reflects the broad tapestry of Kenyan society, ensuring that various voices and perspectives are represented at the highest levels of governance.
The announcement came on the heels of President Ruto dissolving his previous Cabinet, save for Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
Political analysts argue that President Ruto’s decision to include opposition members in his Cabinet is a bold attempt to create a government that transcends partisan lines.
They argue that this signals a willingness to collaborate across political divides for the country’s greater good, addressing critical issues such as economic development, healthcare, and education with a unified front.
Political analyst Dr. Jane Wambui views this move as “a strategic effort to bring together diverse political forces under a unified government framework,” which she believes is crucial for national stability.
She adds, “By including members of the opposition, President Ruto is sending a clear message that his administration values inclusivity and is committed to addressing the needs of all Kenyans.”
She argued that by including opposition figures in his Cabinet, President Ruto is not only fostering unity but also ensuring that critical voices are part of the decision-making process.
On the opposition side, president William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua nominated John Mbadi, Wycliffe Oparanya, and Opiyo Wandayi, all of whom are allied with opposition leader Raila Odinga.
This inclusion marks a significant step towards bridging political divides and working towards a common goal of national development.
John Mbadi has been nominated to head the Ministry of National Treasury, a pivotal role that underscores the administration’s commitment to inclusive economic policies while Wycliffe Oparanya will lead the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSME Development, focusing on empowering small and medium enterprises—a critical sector for economic growth.
Opiyo Wandayi has been tasked with the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, highlighting the government’s dedication to sustainable energy solutions wwhile his counterpart Ali Hasan Joho was designated te ministry of mining.
Other key figures include Kipchumba Murkomen (Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports), Rebecca Miano (Tourism and Wildlife), and Justin Muturi (Public Service), each bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to their respective ministries.
The announcement has elicited mixed reactions from political leaders and the public.
While some commend the President for his inclusive approach, others, like Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua, express skepticism about the long-term implications.
“Let every person stand by the courage of their convictions #AlutaContinua,” Karua said in a statement.
Lawyer Donald Kipkorir emphasized the importance of public oversight, suggesting that the blend of political affiliations in the Cabinet should not dilute accountability.
He said that it is up to Kenyans to do the oversight job by holding the government to account.
“Now that ODM has joined the government, together with UDA (Kenya Kwanza), they now own the success or failure of Kenya Project! It is now left to Gen Z, Kalonzo Musyoka, the Media (thee yonder, the 4th Estate) and the High Court (Constitutional and Judicial Review Divisions) to be the loyal opposition to hold the government to account,” he said.
Former State House Chief of Staff Nzioka Waita expressed concern over the new Cabinet nominations, suggesting they reflect a disconnect from the current political and social realities.
“I am at a loss to understand how such a stark disconnection from reality could occur. Is it a case of cognitive dissonance within ODM? It feels like we’ve jumped from the frying pan into the fire. I pray for Kenya and especially for our youth, that they may realize the future they truly deserve in their lifetimes,” Waita remarked.
Conversely, political analyst Albert Kasembeli has expressed caution noting that the new selection might not satisfy the ish of the public.
“While the inclusivity is commendable, it remains to be seen how effectively these diverse voices can collaborate. The success of this approach will depend heavily on the ability to manage differing political ideologies and agendas.” he said.
President Ruto in his address emphasized that the new Cabinet reflects his vision for a government that is representative of all Kenyans. By integrating diverse political perspectives, the administration hopes to foster a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility, crucial for tackling the nation’s challenges.
The National Assembly has already announced the schedule for vetting President William Ruto’s Cabinet nominees.
The vetting process will take place over four days, from Thursday, August 1, 2024, to Sunday, August 4, 2024, with at least five nominees being reviewed each day.
A notice from Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge stated,
“It is notified to the general public that in compliance with Article 152 (2) of the Constitution, section 6(4) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap. 7F, and Standing Order 45(3), the Committee on Appointments shall conduct Approval Hearings (Vetting) of the nominees from 1st to 4th August 2024.”
This schedule follows the communication from National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who received an additional list of 10 nominees from President William Ruto for consideration as Cabinet Secretaries.
The vetting sessions will be held at the Mini-Chamber, County Hall, Parliament Buildings, starting from 8 a.m. The National Assembly’s Committee on Appointments, chaired by the Speaker, will oversee the process.
On August 1, the vetting will begin with Interior Cabinet Secretary nominee Kithure Kindiki at 8 a.m., followed by Debra Mlongo (Health) at 10 a.m., Alice Wahome (Lands) at 12 p.m., Migos Ogamba (Education) at 3 p.m., and Soipan Tuya (Defence) at 5 p.m.
Kenyans have until August 1, 2024, to submit their views on the nominated Cabinet Secretaries before the vetting process begins.
The Clerk also reminded the nominees to bring their original documents, as well as academic and professional certificates, when they attend the vetting sessions.
