6 times Muturi Dared Ruto with Frequent Criticism of Govt Before He was Fired
In a significant shake-up of his Cabinet, President William Ruto has dismissed Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi and replaced him with Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku. The announcement came on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, alongside other major changes within the government.
Key Cabinet Changes
- Environment CS Aden Duale has been moved to the Health Ministry.
- Health CS Debora Barasa has taken over the Environment docket.
Why Was Justin Muturi Fired?
Muturi had become one of the most outspoken critics of Ruto’s administration from within the government. His open disagreements with the President on governance and human rights issues created tensions that eventually led to his dismissal.
The tipping point came on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, when President Ruto publicly criticized Muturi’s performance during an Iftar dinner at State House. Ruto accused him of incompetence, particularly in his previous role as Attorney General, citing delays in implementing the Waqf Endowment Fund.
“You’ve talked about Waqf, and I agree with you. It has taken too long. There is absolutely no reason for the delays, and I had a problem with the AG who was there before; he was quite incompetent,” Ruto remarked.
A day later, Muturi was officially removed from his position.
Six Key Moments When Muturi Defied Ruto’s Administration
1. March 26, 2025 – Defended Himself Against Ruto’s Incompetence Claim
After Ruto accused him of failing to establish the Waqf Commission, Muturi fired back on his X account. He stated that the Waqf Act did not mandate the Attorney General to create a Muslim endowment fund.
“Under the Waqf Act no.8 of 2022, there’s no provision for a ‘Muslim Endowment Fund.’ A waqf is a religious, charitable, or benevolent endowment managed by the Waqf Commission,” Muturi explained.
2. March 13, 2025 – Boycotted Cabinet Meetings
Muturi revealed in an interview that he had refused to attend Cabinet meetings since January 2025. He demanded that the government formally discuss issues of abductions and extrajudicial killings.
“It is mandatory to attend Cabinet meetings unless excused by the President. I have sought to be excused until the agenda of abductions and extrajudicial killings is formally tabled,” Muturi stated.
3. January 18, 2025 – Criticized Government Silence on Extrajudicial Killings
Muturi condemned the President’s failure to address rising cases of extrajudicial killings. He warned that ignoring the issue would damage public trust.
“Extrajudicial killings are unconstitutional and inhumane. The government cannot turn a blind eye while citizens are abducted without accountability,” he stated at a public forum in Nairobi.
4. February 5, 2025 – Accused Government of Abducting His Son
Muturi made headlines when he accused the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of being involved in the disappearance of his son. He alleged that intelligence agencies were targeting political figures and their families.
“I have credible information linking government agencies to these abductions. If the system is clean, let us have an open investigation,” he demanded.
5. December 12, 2024 – Warned Against Sidelining Mt. Kenya Region
During the Jamhuri Day celebrations, Muturi warned against the political marginalization of the Mt. Kenya region, which had played a key role in electing the Kenya Kwanza government.
“Our people expect representation, fairness, and their share of government resources. Ignoring their concerns is a dangerous political gamble,” he cautioned.
6. November 8, 2024 – Opposed Appointment of Raila’s Allies
Muturi publicly opposed Ruto’s plans to bring allies of Raila Odinga into the Cabinet. He argued that such moves would undermine Kenya Kwanza’s founding principles.
“This government was elected on a platform of change and accountability. We cannot dilute that vision by rewarding those who opposed us,” he said.
Muturi’s Political Future
Muturi’s open defiance and repeated confrontations with the administration made his firing inevitable. However, his removal raises questions about his next political move. Will he join the opposition or mount a political comeback?
As Ruto strengthens his grip on government, the firing of Muturi signals his determination to maintain a loyal and united Cabinet.
6 times Muturi Dared Ruto with Frequent Criticism of Govt Before He was Fired
