President William Ruto’s announcement on Thursday, July 11 about upcoming reform measures in his administration has sent shockwaves through the top echelons of the government, particularly among principal secretaries. This declaration, which hinted at further changes in the Kenya Kwanza government, seems to indicate that the ministry accounting officers, all 51 of them, are not yet in the clear. The proposed reforms are expected to target inefficient PSs and parastatal chiefs, signaling a significant shake-up in the nascent administration.
This move comes on the heels of President Ruto’s unprecedented decision to dismiss all his cabinet secretaries, paving the way for a fresh start in his administration. The decision was prompted by mounting pressure from the youth, particularly the Gen Z, who have been calling for sweeping changes in the government. Their concerns include corruption, impunity, incompetence, lavish lifestyles of public officials, unemployment, and the high cost of living, among other issues affecting the economy.
During his address at State House, President Ruto acknowledged the grievances of the Kenyan people and assured that the operations of the government will continue uninterrupted under the guidance of Principal Secretaries and other relevant officials. He also hinted at additional measures to be announced in the future, indicating that further changes could be on the horizon. The President emphasized the need for extensive consultations across different sectors and political formations to establish a broad-based government, with a focus on making the government lean and efficient.
In the wake of these developments, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who also serves as the Foreign and Diaspora Affairs CS, emerged as the sole survivor of the cabinet reshuffle. President Ruto’s announcement that PSs and other relevant government officials will oversee the affairs of government until a new Cabinet is appointed underscores the significance of the impending reforms and the need for seamless operations in the ministries.