Rumours circulating in the capital on Monday suggested that President William Ruto is set to sack at least 15 chief secretaries as part of a comprehensive reshuffle within his administration.
However, these allegations have been denied as baseless by the president’s aides. Speaking at a Daybreak panel, Senator Hillary Sigei of Bomet touched on these speculations, claiming that recent meetings and interactions between President Ruto and his cabinet have been more focused on promoting unity than on carrying out major personnel changes. The discussion came after a breakfast meeting at State House where President Ruto convened his newly appointed cabinet members (CSs) and PSs. Sigei explained that the president’s current priority is to address the aftermath of the recent protests led by Generation Z activists.
He suggested the State House meeting was meant to strengthen relationships and reinforce the government’s resolve to regain public confidence. He detailed that the breakfast meeting did not involve discussions about who would stay in office and who would go. Despite these assurances, there are indications that President Ruto is considering streamlining the government structure. His initiatives reportedly include the consolidation of certain government departments and a restructuring of the Cabinet, which could lead to the appointment of new senior officials and a reorganization of existing roles.
The proposed reorganization is part of a broader plan to improve efficiency, optimize administration and cut costs. At a recent meeting, President Ruto stressed the importance of unity and a shared commitment to serve the nation. “We are one team and we have to work as one,” he asserted, stressing the focus on Kenya rather than personal ties. President Ruto’s newly formed administration is notable for its inclusiveness, embracing diverse individuals, including prominent members of the ODM party, who have been entrusted with key roles.
This “broad-based” approach to government formation demonstrates the president’s willingness to embrace a range of perspectives and experiences rather than relying solely on members of his own political affiliation. President Ruto’s recent appointments represent a significant political shift in that he has welcomed into government a former ally of opposition leader Raila Odinga. The strategic move is seen as a determined effort to address the insecurity that has disrupted economic activity across the country and promote national unity.
