Ruto Announces Major Cabinet Reshuffle

December 19, 2024 – Nairobi, Kenya

In a significant move to optimize the performance of the executive branch and enhance service delivery, President William Ruto has today announced a series of nominations, re-assignments, and appointments within the Cabinet and senior ranks of the executive. These changes are part of the Administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

Cabinet Nominations

President Ruto has nominated several individuals for key Cabinet positions, subject to parliamentary approval. Among the notable nominations, Kipchumba Murkomen has been nominated as the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, a pivotal role in ensuring national security and administration.

Other notable nominations include:

Hon. Mutahi Kagwe as Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock Development.
Hon. Lee Kinyanjui as Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Investments, Trade & Industry.
Hon. William Kabogo as Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications & The Digital Economy.

These nominations are expected to bring a wealth of experience and new perspectives to the respective ministries, aligning with the President’s vision for a revitalized government.

Cabinet Dismissals

In a surprising turn of events, the President also announced the dismissal of two Cabinet Secretaries who had been in office for less than five months. Andrew Karanja, the former Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, was replaced by Mutahi Kagwe. Margaret Njuguna was also relieved of her duties as Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication, and Digital Technology, with William Kabogo taking over the role.

These dismissals come shortly after President Ruto’s visit to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, fueling speculation about potential further changes within the administration.

Diplomatic Appointments

In accordance with Article 132 (2) (e) of the Constitution, President Ruto has also nominated several individuals to serve in Kenya’s foreign missions abroad. These appointments are intended to strengthen Kenya’s diplomatic presence and international relations. The nominations include:

Ms. Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u as High Commissioner to Ghana.
Hon. Ababu Namwamba as Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON).
Amb. Dorothy Angote as High Commissioner to Zimbabwe.
Dr. Andrew Karanja as Ambassador to Brazil.

Re-Assignment of Cabinet Secretaries

In a strategic realignment, the President has re-assigned the following Cabinet Secretaries:

Hon. Salim Mvurya to the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports.
Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen to the Ministry of Interior & National Administration.

These re-assignments aim to leverage the strengths and expertise of the respective individuals, ensuring effective leadership in these critical areas.

Appointments to State Corporations

President Ruto has made key appointments to state corporations, enhancing governance and oversight. The appointments include:

Hon. Ndiritu Muriithi as Chairperson, Board of Directors, Kenya Revenue Authority.
Mr. Anthony Mwaura as Chairperson, Board of Directors, Kenya Rural Roads Authority.
Hon. Kembi Gitura as Chairperson, Board of Directors, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital.

These appointments are expected to drive efficiency and accountability within these institutions.

Next Steps

The nominations for Cabinet Secretaries, High Commissioners, Ambassadors, and Permanent Representatives have been transmitted to the National Assembly for consideration and approval, as mandated by the Constitution.

Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, Felix K. Koskei, EGH, emphasized that these changes are geared towards revitalizing the executive branch to better serve the needs of the nation.

This reshuffle marks a significant moment in President Ruto’s administration, reflecting a commitment to strengthening governance and enhancing service delivery in line with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. The nation now awaits parliamentary approval to see these changes come into full effect.