Ruto’s New Cabinet Sworn In

President William Ruto's 19 newly appointed Cabinet Secretaries were officially sworn in on Thursday morning, August 8. This development follows their appointment, which the President formally gazetted in accordance with Article 152(2) of the Constitution. This constitutional provision grants the head of state the authority to nominate and appoint Cabinet Secretaries, subject to the approval of the National Assembly.

Kindiki being sworn in as the new cabinet Secretary for Interior security.

The journey to their appointments was not without scrutiny. The National Assembly's Committee on Appointments conducted an intensive four-day vetting process to assess the suitability of the nominees for their respective roles. While most nominees passed this rigorous examination, one did not: Stella Soi Langat, nominated for the Gender docket, was the only candidate rejected by the Committee.

During the presentation of the vetting report to Parliament on Wednesday, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah explained the decision. "Stella Soi Langat is a career civil servant with extensive experience in public service, but she did not demonstrate an adequate understanding of the Gender docket to which she was nominated. The committee found her unsuitable for appointment to that position," Ichung’wah remarked.

The 19 Cabinet Secretaries who received the green light from the Committee and have now officially taken office include notable figures such as Kithure Kindiki for Interior, Soipan Tuya for Defence, Aden Duale for Environment, and Kipchumba Murkomen for Sports. Others appointed to critical ministries are John Mbadi for Treasury, Alfred Mutua for Labour, and Alice Wahome for Lands, among others.

The vetting process is set to continue, with East African Community Affairs (EAC) nominee Beatrice Askul Moe and Attorney General nominee Dorcas Oduor scheduled for review on Friday, August 9.

President Ruto's newly minted Cabinet is a broad-based team, reflecting his commitment to a diverse and inclusive government. The swearing-in ceremony marks a pivotal moment in his administration, as these leaders are now poised to steer their respective ministries forward.