CS Nominee Geoffrey Ruku Declares Ksh.377 Million Net Worth, Vows to End Ghost Workers and Promote Inclusivity

Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS) nominee Geoffrey Ruku has revealed his net worth to be Ksh.377 million as he appeared before the parliamentary vetting committee on Monday.

Speaking at Parliament Buildings in Nairobi, Ruku broke down his wealth portfolio, citing various investments ranging from real estate to company shares.

“Lands and buildings are about Ksh.40 million; family residence Ksh.60 million; sacco and savings Ksh.50 million; shares from companies Ksh.250 million; and motor vehicles Ksh.12 million,” he said.

Ruku, the current MP for Mbeere North and a strong ally of President William Ruto, emphasized his commitment to transparency and fairness in public service. He vowed to fight corruption and ensure that Kenya’s diverse communities are equitably represented.

“I will serve without fear or favour, streamline unemployment issues, and create job opportunities without nepotism,” Ruku affirmed.

Among his key proposals is the introduction of a digital system aimed at eliminating ghost workers in the public service—an issue that has cost taxpayers billions of shillings over the years.

Additionally, Ruku promised to champion the rights of minority groups, particularly persons living with disabilities, pledging to promote inclusivity and social equity.

Past Controversy

Ruku is perhaps best known for sponsoring the contentious Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024. The bill sought to regulate the conduct of public protests, including imposing conditions to safeguard public order and personal safety. However, it faced backlash from civil rights groups who claimed it threatened the constitutional right to peaceful assembly under Article 37.

Amid national uproar, Ruku withdrew the bill but maintained that his intentions were misunderstood.

“No life should be lost because of demonstrations; no property should be destroyed,” he explained during his vetting.

Replacing Justin Muturi

Ruku was nominated to the Cabinet on March 26, succeeding Justin Muturi, who was dismissed following tensions with the President. Muturi, a former Speaker of the National Assembly, had openly criticized the government over alleged extrajudicial actions, particularly the abduction and killing of youths during last year’s anti-government protests. Notably, his own son was among those abducted.

Muturi had distanced himself from Cabinet meetings, demanding accountability—ultimately costing him his position.

As Ruku awaits parliamentary approval, Kenyans will be watching closely to see whether his pledges translate into action, particularly on the pressing issues of job creation, corruption, and digital reform within the public service.

In other news:Senate Launches Probe into Creation of Over 1,100 Administrative Units Across Counties

CS Nominee Geoffrey Ruku Declares Ksh.377 Million Net Worth, Vows to End Ghost Workers and Promote Inclusivity