President Ruto Nominates 14 New Principal Secretaries

President William Ruto has nominated 14 new Principal Secretaries (PSs) to serve in various state departments, bringing fresh leadership to key ministries. The nominations, announced by Chief of Staff Felix Koskei, follow recommendations from the Public Service Commission (PSC) and were made under Article 155(3) of the Constitution.

Key Appointments

Among the notable nominees is former Nyeri Deputy Governor Caroline Wanjiru Karugu, who has been selected to lead the State Department for East African Community (EAC) Affairs under the Ministry of East African Community Affairs, ASALS, and Regional Development.

Dr. Fredrick Ouma Oluga, a former chief officer of health in the defunct Nairobi Metropolitan Services and ex-secretary-general of the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU), will head the State Department for Medical Services in the Ministry of Health.

Other significant appointments include:

• Regina Akoth Ombam – State Department for Trade under the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry.
• Cyrell Wagunda Odede – State Department for Public Investments and Asset Management under the National Treasury and Economic Planning.
• Ahmed Abdisalan Ibrahim – State Department for National Government Coordination under the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary.
• Judith Naiyai Pareno – State Department for Justice, Human Rights, and Constitutional Affairs in the Executive Office of the President.
• Bonface Makokha – State Department for Economic Planning.
• Prof Abdulrazak Shaukat – State Department for Science, Research, and Innovation.
• Stephen Isaboke – State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications.
• Michael Lenasalon – Office of the Deputy President, State Department for Devolution.
• Fikirini Katoi Kahindi Jacobs – State Department for Devolution.
• CPA Carren Ageng’o Achieng – State Department for Youth Affairs in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
• Aden Abdi Millah – State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs under the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs.

Reshuffle and Political Implications

The nominations come amid speculation over a looming government reshuffle. The Public Service Commission had interviewed 109 applicants earlier this year, with the final list reportedly submitted to the President last month.

Political analysts suggest that the reshuffle could be a strategic move to consolidate Ruto’s administration and accommodate allies from different factions, including those from the opposition, following Kenya Kwanza’s working agreement with ODM leader Raila Odinga.

There has also been speculation that some PSs linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua might be replaced as part of the reorganisation.

Approval Process and Responsibilities

The nominees will serve as accounting and authorising officers in their respective state departments. Their key responsibilities will include implementing government policies, overseeing strategic plans, managing resources efficiently, and upholding constitutional values as outlined in Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution.

Chief of Staff Felix Koskei confirmed that the nominations have been submitted to Parliament for vetting and approval.

“The President has transmitted the nominations for appointment to the ranks of Principal Secretaries, and the applicable Foreign Service postings to the National Assembly for consideration and approval in fulfillment of the legal requirements set out under our nation’s apex law,” Koskei stated.

The National Assembly committees responsible for the respective ministries will conduct vetting before the formal appointments are made.

As the vetting process unfolds, all eyes remain on Parliament to determine how these new appointments will shape the administration and governance of key state functions in Kenya.

In other news:Ruto to Kenyans: Judge Me by My Work in 2027

President Ruto Nominates 14 New Principal Secretaries