Ruto must get it right with the Cabinet to govern effectively

President William Ruto during the commissioning of the Chemususu Water Supply Project at Muserech in Eldama Ravine on August 2, 2024.[Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

While being interviewed on a local radio station, lawyer Ahmednassir said, “If President Ruto does not get his cabinet right this time, we will know he is the problem”. Ruto recently fired his entire cabinet, which signalled a shift towards accountability and professional governance. However, the reappointment of some members has left Kenyans questioning whether the root of Kenya’s leadership crisis lies with the president.

Kenya’s political landscape has long been plagued by tokenism and cronyism, with cabinet positions often awarded based on political loyalty rather than merit. This practice has fostered a culture of self-enrichment among cabinet secretaries, with little regard for public accountability. It is no coincidence that many of Kenya’s billionaires have political ties, having amassed their wealth during their time in government.

Ruto’s action epitomises the failure to prioritise professionalism in government appointments. This decision undermines the principles of accountability and transparency that are crucial for effective governance. The controversial Finance Bill 2024, seen as a product of this failed leadership, is a glaring example of the consequences of appointing individuals based on loyalty rather than competence.

Complaints about wealth accumulation among previous cabinets are not new. The public has long questioned how individuals, who were relatively unknown before their appointments, suddenly became some of the most wealthy. This pattern of enrichment raises critical concerns about the ethical standards and motivations of those in power.

Looking ahead, one must ask: what if cabinet positions were truly based on accountability and professional qualifications, would the current cabinet members still be willing to serve under such scrutiny? The answer to this question could reshape our understanding of governance and the importance of education in leadership roles. If positions were awarded based on merit and a track record of public service, we could foster a culture of accountability that prioritises the welfare of the Kenyan people over personal gain. Professionals with the requisite expertise and integrity would be more likely to implement policies that address the nation’s pressing issues effectively.

Ruto’s decision to rehire some CSs signals a missed opportunity for genuine reform. For Kenya to progress, we must move beyond tokenism and cronyism and instead embrace a culture of accountability and professionalism in leadership. Only then can we hope to see a government that truly serves its people and upholds the values of transparency and integrity. If Ruto does not get his second cabinet right, we will know that the problem lies with his leadership. Kenya’s issues stem from a governance problem, and it’s clear that the president has failed to address corruption and promote accountability, despite his campaign promises. The hope that his presidency would bring about meaningful change has been dashed, and the continued reappointment of the same old faces only serves to deepen the public’s disappointment.

By prioritising loyalty over competence, the president risks further eroding trust in government and exacerbating the very issues he vowed to solve. It is imperative that Ruto uses this second chance to appoint a worthy cabinet as proof he can indeed lead Kenya towards a brighter future.

Ms Kariuki is the National Coordinator, SFL