Ruto Explains Nominating Mutahi Kagwe, Kabogo, Lee Kinyanjui To His Cabinet
Ruto emphasised that they would play a crucial role in helping the government address critical issues affecting Kenyans.
Marvin Chege 
President William Ruto on Sunday, December 22 explained why he decided to expand his broad-based Cabinet by nominating allies of former President Uhuru Kenyatta for Cabinet Secretary positions.
Speaking during a church service at the AIC Kipkorgot in Uasin Gishu County, the Head of State explained that the nominations were the latest bid to foster unity among Kenyans, a matter he believed was crucial in driving the country's transformation agenda.
Expressing confidence in the appointees, Ruto emphasised that they would play a crucial role in helping the government address critical issues affecting Kenyans.
“The other day, I broadened the government further by bringing in some new people so that we can promote unity and understanding, and ensure that our focus is not solely political but geared towards transformation,” Ruto stated.
Collage of Lee Kinyanui, Mutahi Kagwe and William Kabogo nominated to Cabinet positions by President William Ruto. /NTV
“This is so that we can understand how we can executive some of the government ambitions including giving employment to Kenyans and ensuring a high quality of life for our citizens."
The Head of State yet again slammed Kenyans for criticising his government projects, including the planned mass vaccination of livestock early in 2025, affirming that it will continue despite opposition from a section of politicians and veterinarians. According to Ruto, the government had already fulfilled some of the promises it made.
His remarks come a few days after he announced another Cabinet reshuffle, this time around incorporating figures who had served in the Uhuru regime.
In a press release dated Friday, December 20, the president nominated Mutahi Kagwe, Lee Kinyanjui and William Kabogo to the cabinet positions. The trio were nominated as cabinet secretaries for Agriculture, Trade and Information Communication and Technology (ICT) respectively.
Furthermore, former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi, who was a staunch critic of Ruto's economic policies, was appointed as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) chairperson, replacing Board Chair Anthony Mwaura, who was reassigned to head the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA).
The nominations came shortly after a reported meeting between Ruto and Uhuru at Kenyatta’s Gatundu home, marking their first direct engagement since their political fallout. State House confirmed that the discussions centred on national and regional issues.
The appointments have sparked debate, with some critics raising concerns about regional and gender balance within the Cabinet. Observers have pointed out that if the nominations are approved, the Mt. Kenya region would dominate the Cabinet, holding 35 per cent of the positions.
“Seven out of 20 Cabinet Secretaries will be from the Mt. Kenya region, excluding the President, Deputy President, and Attorney General,” critics have noted.
Some have also accused Ruto of appointing allies of the former president to regain support in Mt. Kenya, following his fallout with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Despite the criticism, Ruto remains firm in his belief that the appointments will help his government deliver on its promises. “This government is intentional about building unity and transforming Kenya,” he asserted, reiterating his commitment to improving the quality of life for Kenyans.
The Cabinet nominations have been transmitted to the National Assembly for vetting and approval, setting the stage for what could be a contentious debate in Parliament.
