Ruto Hands Ex-MPs & Bishop Govt Jobs In Latest Appointments

His latest appointments include retired clergy, ex-MPs, and seasoned professionals who have now been placed at the helm of various institutions

Ruto Hands Ex-MPs & Bishop Govt Jobs In Latest Appointments
President William Ruto when he met EAC Secretary-General Veronica Nduva who was accompanied by her deputies Annette Ssemuwemba and Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth at State House, Nairobi on October 2, 2024. /PCS

President William Ruto has made a series of appointments to key state boards and selection panels in his latest move to cultivate fresh governance as he hands experienced individuals to man critical sectors.

His latest appointments include retired clergy, ex-MPs, and seasoned professionals who have now been placed at the helm of various institutions, showcasing his preference for seasoned leadership in reshaping key institutions.

Among the appointees, per a gazette notice published on Friday, October 4, include former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka who will take over as the Chairperson of the Kenya Animal Genetic Resource Centre for three years, a move which sees him make a comeback to public service after his two-term tenure in Parliament. 

Munyaka, who served in the Departmental Committee on Communication, Information, and Innovation, is expected to apply his vast experience to modernising the centre, to boost the agricultural sector.

Former Machakos Town MP Victor Munyaka with William Ruto during a past campaign trail. /MAUVOO NEWS

He was previously nominated for the position of Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) at the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development, but the position was declared unconstitutional by the country's judicial system.

Also included is retired ACK Bishop Joseph Kagunda, who has been tasked with leading the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) for three years.

Kagunda, a revered figure who led the ACK Diocese of Mt. Kenya West until April 2023, is expected to steer the push against doping which has been a headache in Kenya’s sports sector. With over 145 athletes banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency, his leadership comes at a crucial time as Kenya seeks to restore its sporting integrity.

Another appointment is Joseph Kipchumba Lagat, a former Eldoret East MP under KANU, who has been appointed Chairperson of the National Mining Corporation for three years. Amidst mining emerging as a serious driver of Kenya's economy, Lagat’s role will be pivotal in shaping policies that enhance Kenya’s resource management.

His previous experience in Parliament is expected to aid in fostering industry growth and attracting investment to the sector.

President Ruto also turned to the country's media sector, focusing on the 'kitchen' being one of the main academic institutions offering training in that field. For this, he appointed Silas Otieno Jonyo to chair the Council of the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC) for three years. 

Jonyo will oversee the training of media professionals as the media industry continues to evolve rapidly, shaped by digital disruption and public demand for timely, accurate information.

The president also hired James Ndungu Mureu to lead the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority. As the former Vice President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry for a term of three years, Mureu brings a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship and business management.

Ruto also appointed seven members to constitute a Selection Panel that will recruit the Vice-Chairperson and members of the Public Service Commission (PSC). This is in line with the law that requires the PSC to consist of a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and members appointed by the President with the approval of the National Assembly.

The seven members include; Arthur Osiya, Oscar Eredi, Prof. Nura Mohammed, Grace Wairimu Kamau, Ruth Wambeti Ruraa, Nancy M. Butama, and Elizabeth Chesang.

Chesang, a long-time advocate for persons with disabilities, will serve on the panel recruiting new members for the PSC while continuing her tenure as Chairperson of the National Council for Persons With Disabilities.

President William Ruto hosts the inaugural Africa Green Industrialisation Initiative Steering Committee meeting in New York on September 25, 2024. /PCS