President Ruto Calls CS Justin Muturi ‘Incompetent’ Amid Rift Over Waqf Commission
President William Ruto has openly criticized Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Justin Muturi, calling him “fairly incompetent” in handling legal matters concerning the establishment of the Waqf Commission.
Speaking during an Iftar dinner at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, President Ruto assured Muslim leaders that issues surrounding the Waqf endowment fund would be resolved swiftly under the current Attorney General.
Ruto’s Sharp Criticism of Muturi
“I had a problem with the AG who was there before—he was fairly incompetent. But now, I have a very competent lady in the position, and I can assure you that the issues of Waqf will be sorted out within months,” said Ruto.
The President’s remarks come amid growing tensions between him and Muturi, who served as Attorney General before being appointed Public Service CS. The criticism is the strongest indication yet of a possible fallout between the two leaders, especially following Muturi’s recent accusations that the Ruto administration is complicit in abductions and extrajudicial killings.
Addressing Waqf and Religious Education Concerns
The Waqf Commission, which is meant to manage Islamic endowments, has faced delays despite an existing Act of Parliament that is yet to be operationalized. Muslim leaders raised concerns over the stagnation of the initiative, prompting President Ruto to assure them of imminent action.
Beyond the Waqf issue, the President reaffirmed his commitment to religious inclusivity and the integration of religious education into the national curriculum. He acknowledged that mainstreaming religious education had been delayed for too long and vowed to address it.
“We will continue to look at the issues raised here—how we can mainstream religious education and find a nexus between religious and formal education. This has taken too long, and there is absolutely no reason for it,” Ruto stated.
Recognition of the Nubian Community
President Ruto also promised formal recognition of the Nubian community as an official Kenyan ethnic group. He assured them that by Madaraka Day or Jamhuri Day, they would have their rightful place in Kenya’s social and legal framework.
A Growing Rift in Government?
Ruto’s blunt criticism of Muturi adds to growing tensions within the government, with some observers interpreting the remarks as a sign of looming Cabinet reshuffles. The fallout could have broader political implications, especially if Muturi continues to challenge Ruto’s administration on matters of governance and human rights.
In other news: Concerns Rise Over Cost of Ruto’s Growing Government
President Ruto Calls CS Justin Muturi ‘Incompetent’ Amid Rift Over Waqf Commission