How Kenyans reacted to Ruto's new Cabinet changes

Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.[File, standard]

President William Ruto reshuffled his Cabinet, appointing new leaders to key ministries, including Interior, Sports, Trade, and Agriculture.  

The reshuffle saw Kipchumba Murkomen appointed to the Interior and National Administration docket, Mutahi Kagwe nominated to Agriculture, William Kabogo to ICT and Digital Economy, and Lee Kinyanjui to Trade, Investment, and Industry.  

Following the announcement, some appointees expressed gratitude through social media. 

Murkomen thanked the president for trusting him with the role, promising to deliver on his mandate.  

“I look forward to supporting the president in delivering on his national security and administration agenda. In keeping with my oath of office, I pledge to serve with honor and dignity and to perform my duties to the best of my ability,” stated Murkomen. 

However, his appointment elicited mixed reactions from Kenyans. While some congratulated him, others questioned his qualifications for the role.  

A social media user going by Jackson Kenya, commented: “Congratulations on the new role. That said, what would you say was your proudest achievement in your previous docket? It’s inspiring to see the milestones that set the foundation for new opportunities.”  

Lee Kinyanjui, nominated as Trade CS, likened his situation to fictional Lady Godiva’s courageous act of opposing high taxes imposed by her husband, drawing parallels to leadership and sacrifice. But, the former Nakuru Governor did not comment directly on his new nomination. 

His successor Susan Kihika, congratulated him and expressed confidence in his ability to drive growth and investment.  

“I am confident that you will utilise your networks and expertise to champion growth and investment in our nation. Wishing you every success in this transformative role,” Kihika said.  

Criticism
Not everyone was supportive of Kinyanjui’s appointment. 

A social media user urged him to reject the nomination and focus on completing his unfinished projects in Nakuru County.  

Outgoing Trade CS Salim Mvurya expressed enthusiasm for his new role in Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports.  

“As I transition to this ministry, I am eager to collaborate with stakeholders to empower the youth, spur the creative economy, and promote sports as a tool for unity and economic growth,” he stated.  

Meanwhile, Agriculture nominee Mutahi Kagwe has remained silent on his appointment. 

Some netizens reacted skeptically, with one user, Roiginson, commenting: “CS Nominee Mutahi Kagwe is coming to deal with cow vaccination the way he handled the COVID-19 vaccine.”  

Uhuru's influence
The reshuffle, which came shortly after President Ruto's visit to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, has fueled speculation about its political implications. 

Some believe it was an effort to accommodate allies from the previous administration.  

Senate speaker Amason Kingi commented;  “What Ruto has done in bringing in Raila, Uhuru and their brigades is because of creating unity in Kenya. Those making noise now are those who were previously saying he had abandoned some communities”.

“Uhuru Kenyatta's team of 'experts' has aligned with the UDA government, adding to earlier support from Raila Odinga’s team. Is the puzzle now complete?” a user under Los Pepes speculated.  

Others viewed the appointments as a win for the Mt. Kenya region.

Government advisor Moses Kuria lauded the president, saying: “Thank you, Mr. President. You are a good man. Thank you for Kindiki, Kagwe, Kabogo, and Kinyanjui—the 4K Club of Mt. Kenya.”  

However, some leaders expressed dissent. Embakasi North MP James Gakuya questioned the impact of the appointments on Mt. Kenya’s political landscape, while Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina criticised the reshuffle as tribalistic, stating, “Enyewe, Kenya belongs to only two tribes.”  

The changes have since sparked widespread debate, highlighting both optimism and concerns about inclusivity and effectiveness in the new Cabinet lineup. 

Friday's changes to Cabinet are the third in Ruto's two years of administration.