Manyora: Ruto ignored public demands, retained controversial CSs

Political analyst Herman Manyora. [File, Herman's X]

As the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments prepares to table its report on the vetted Cabinet Secretaries, experts express skepticism about the nominated CSs' potential performance if approved by Parliament.

In an interview on Spice FM, political analyst Herman Manyora criticized President Ruto's selection of the 20 individuals for his second cabinet, arguing Ruto missed the mark with his nominations.

According to Manyora,the president ignored public demands by retaining some of the most controversial cabinet secretaries from his previous cabinet.

Furthermore, Manyora argued that collaborating with ODM leader Raila Odinga exacerbates the issue, noting that Kenyans were demanding credible leaders capable of effective governance, not officials with a historical background of corruption and opulence. 

"When you dissolve the cabinet, it’s not about their performance. It’s a gesture to show the public you've heard them and are willing to change. Returning those you fired undermines that message," said Manyora.

He further noted that even if some nominees, particularly those from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), are competent, the structure of their nomination might hinder their ability to perform effectively. 

"There might be a few who are competent. However, how sure are you that the President will give them room to perform? The arrangement they are in makes it difficult to ensure they will perform," he said.

These remarks come as the National Assembly Committee on Appointments prepares to table its report on the 20 vetted individuals seeking ministerial positions. 

The vetting process has sparked significant discussion on social media, particularly concerning the nominees' net worth and their competence for the roles they have been nominated for.

If all 20 are approved, the majority, including Hassan Joho, John Mbadi, and Debra Mlongo, will be stepping in as first-time CSs, while others like Kithure Kindiki, Davis Chirchir, and Kipchumba Murkomen will be making a comeback as ministers in Ruto's second Cabinet.