President William Ruto dissolved his entire cabinet on Wednesday, abruptly ending the tenure of some of the country’s shortest-serving cabinet secretaries. The dismissed officials, who had been in office for just 21 months, have responded with a mix of gratitude and reflection on their brief time in office.
The dissolution, which comes as Ruto approaches the midpoint of his first term, has seen former cabinet members have take to social media to share their thoughts on their abbreviated tenures.
Aden Duale, the former Defence Cabinet Secretary, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency President [Ruto] for entrusting me with the role of Cabinet Secretary for Defence,” Duale stated. “I am deeply honored and will forever be indebted to him and the people of Kenya for this opportunity to serve our great nation.”
The sentiment of gratitude was echoed by Kipchumba Murkomen, who held the Roads and Transport portfolio. Murkomen described his time in office as “my greatest privilege and honor to serve my country as a Cabinet Secretary.”
Some former cabinet members used the opportunity to highlight their achievements during their brief tenures. Dr. Nakhumicha S. Wafula, who headed the Health Ministry, pointed to significant progress in healthcare reform. “We initiated far-reaching reforms in the health sector, both legislatively and policy-wise, to lay a firm foundation for the realisation of UHC [Universal Health Coverage],” Dr. Wafula said. She also acknowledged the challenges faced, adding, “To those I didn’t meet your expectations, I take it that life is a learning experience.”
The dissolution has not been without controversy, with some observers questioning the timing and potential impact on ongoing government initiatives. However, former Environment Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya struck a conciliatory tone, stating, “Anything that paves the way for the best interest of our nation, at this point in time, is preeminent.”
Alfred Mutua, who served as Tourism Cabinet Secretary, offered insight into President Ruto’s motivations. “During my tenure, I have witnessed firsthand President Ruto’s genuine commitment to the rapid transformation of our country,” Mutua remarked. “As a leader with considerable experience, I understand the necessity behind the President’s decision to dismiss all members of his cabinet. Such decisions, though difficult, are often imperative for the greater good.”
Ababu Namwamba, the outgoing Sports Cabinet Secretary, emphasized the significance of cabinet service, describing it as “a special honour, privilege and blessing to serve one’s nation, more so in Cabinet, the country’s highest policy making organ.”
As Kenya awaits the announcement of a new cabinet, questions remain about the potential policy shifts that may accompany this shake-up. The dismissed cabinet secretaries’ statements, while largely positive, hint at the complex dynamics at play within the highest levels of Kenyan government.
Mithika Linturi, who led the Agriculture and Livestock Development ministry, summed up the sentiment shared by many of his colleagues: “Your decision to entrust me with this significant responsibility is both a privilege & a humbling experience.”
As President Ruto prepares to appoint new cabinet members, all eyes will be on the composition and priorities of the incoming team.
