Atwoli Comments On Ruto’s ODM Cabinet Picks, Terms Them ‘Competent’
Kenya’s political scene has been electrified by President William Ruto’s latest Cabinet appointments, which include four senior members from the opposition ODM party. This initiative, intended to create a ‘broad-based government’, has ignited fierce debate and criticism amid ongoing unrest.
Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-K), has called on Ruto to appoint younger Kenyans to the remaining Cabinet position, while openly supporting the inclusion of opposition members.
Atwoli’s support comes as Ruto faces increasing pressure from various fronts, trying to navigate the turmoil that has erupted in recent weeks.
Ruto’s choice to integrate leading ODM figures into his administration follows significant public backlash and six weeks of nationwide protests. This decision appears to be a strategic move aimed at bridging political divides and stabilizing a nation that has been shaken by social and economic unrest.
Yet, the response from both the public and opposition has been far from favorable.
The newly appointed ODM Cabinet members are notable figures with considerable political influence. John Mbadi, a leading ODM member, is set to become the Minister of National Treasury and Economic Planning. Opiyo Wandayi is proposed for the Energy portfolio, while Hassan Joho is earmarked for Mining and Blue Economy.
Wycliffe Oparanya is anticipated to lead the Ministry of Co-operatives and MSMEs. These appointments represent a significant shift in Kenya’s political landscape, placing opposition voices at the core of the government.
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President Ruto defended his selections, lauding the broad-based approach and the readiness of diverse organizations to transcend partisan divides. “Their willingness to unite for the radical transformation of Kenya signifies a historic act of patriotism,” Ruto stated, highlighting his commitment to a unified government despite the turbulent context.
Despite Ruto’s assurances, the public’s reaction has been largely negative. Young protesters, who had been vocal against the Finance Bill, 2024, argue that incorporating opposition leaders into the Cabinet only perpetuates the cycle of co-opting political rivals without providing real benefits to the public.
Their frustration underscores a deeper dissatisfaction with the current political system and its inability to address critical economic and social issues.
The protests, which the Kenya National Human Rights Commission reports have claimed over 60 lives, highlight the severity of the crisis facing Ruto’s administration. The demonstrations, initially sparked by the controversial Finance Bill, 2024, have continued even after the President decided to withdraw the proposed tax increases. Activists and opposition groups persist in calling for Ruto’s resignation, reflecting growing discontent with his leadership.
The Cabinet reshuffle is more than just a political strategy; it is a crucial response to the unrest that has disrupted economic activities and strained Kenya’s social fabric. The President’s effort to include opposition figures could be seen as a strategic move to stabilize the situation and show a willingness to address the protesters’ concerns.
Atwoli Comments On Ruto’s ODM Cabinet Picks, Terms Them ‘Competent’
