CS Muturi: Why I Have Not Been Attending Cabinet Meetings
Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS) Justin Muturi has confirmed that he has been skipping Cabinet meetings by choice. Speaking on Citizen TV on Wednesday night, Muturi said he requested to be excused from the meetings until the issue of forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings is officially discussed.
Muturi Demands Cabinet Discussion
Muturi emphasized that Cabinet meetings are mandatory but insisted that Kenyaโs top decision-making body must debate the rising cases of forced disappearances and killings.
“I have written to request an exemption from Cabinet meetings unless the issue of forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings is tabled through a Cabinet memorandum. The Cabinet must discuss this and offer a way forward,” Muturi stated.
Not Insubordination, Muturi Says
Muturi dismissed claims that his absence is an act of defiance. He stressed that the issue is a major concern for Kenyans, and the Cabinet must take a stand.
“Everyone in this country is talking about these cases. If the Cabinet of Kenya cannot express itself on this matter, it risks being seen as complicit,” he argued.
Muturi also acknowledged that President William Ruto had promised to end extrajudicial killings in December 2024. However, he noted that no official directives have been issued to facilitate a Cabinet discussion on the matter.
Muturiโs Sonโs Disappearance
Muturiโs strong stance follows a personal tragedyโthe alleged disappearance of his son, Leslie, during the June Gen-Z protests. In a press briefing on January 12, Muturi accused the Kenya Kwanza government of failing to address the rising cases of forced disappearances. He further claimed that the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), Noordin Haji, was behind Leslieโs abduction.
According to Muturi, Leslie was only released after President Ruto personally called the NIS boss. Since making these revelations, Muturi has missed three Cabinet meetings, sparking speculation that he might be removed from office.
Muturi Ready for Any Outcome
During the Citizen TV interview, Muturi acknowledged that his fate in the Cabinet lies in the hands of President Ruto.
“Staying or leaving the Cabinet is up to the appointing authority. I donโt know how long I will be here, but that is entirely the Presidentโs decision,” he said.
Despite the uncertainty, Muturi ruled out resigning, saying that stepping down would be an act of cowardice. Instead, he vowed to continue addressing the issue while still in office, insisting that this would be more impactful.
With tensions rising, it remains to be seen whether the Cabinet will finally discuss the issue or if Muturiโs position in government will be affected by his bold stance.
CS Muturi: Why I Have Not Been Attending Cabinet Meetings