President Ruto Sacks Public Service CS Justin Muturi in Cabinet Reshuffle
Kenya’s President William Ruto has dismissed Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS) Justin Muturi in the latest government changes. In a notice dated Wednesday, March 26, President Ruto appointed Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku as the new CS for Public Service.
New Cabinet Appointments
Alongside Ruku’s appointment, Ruto also nominated Hanna Cheptumo as the new CS for Gender, Culture, and Heritage. Cheptumo is the wife of former Baringo Senator William Cheptumo.
“The nominees are expected to bring to Cabinet not only the knowledge and experience acquired throughout their illustrious careers but, above all, their wisdom accumulated from their inspiring and diverse life journeys,” the official notice stated.
Why Was Justin Muturi Fired?
Muturi’s dismissal comes just a day after President Ruto criticized his previous performance as Attorney General, calling him “fairly incompetent.” Speaking at a State House meeting with Muslim leaders, Ruto highlighted delays in handling issues related to the Waqf Act.
“I had a problem with the AG who was there; he was fairly incompetent. But I now have a very competent lady in that position, and I can assure you that the issues of Waqf will be sorted out in a matter of months,” Ruto stated.
Muturi Defends His Record
Following his dismissal, Muturi defended his work as Attorney General, stating that he saved the government Ksh17.5 billion during his tenure. He also clarified the legal position of the Waqf Act, emphasizing that the law does not allow for a “Muslim Endowment Fund.”
“Under the Waqf Act No. 8 of 2022, there is no provision for a ‘Muslim Endowment Fund.’ A waqf is a religious, charitable, or benevolent endowment by a person who professes the Muslim faith and is managed by the Waqf Commission,” Muturi explained.
Security Concerns and Cabinet Absences
One of the key disagreements between Muturi and President Ruto centered on abductions reported in 2024. Muturi had urged the government to take stronger action against security agencies involved in the abductions. He also skipped several Cabinet meetings, insisting that the issue be addressed.
Other Cabinet Changes
In addition to Muturi’s dismissal, President Ruto made other changes to his Cabinet:
- Environment CS Aden Duale was reassigned to the Health Ministry.
- CS Deborah Mlongo was moved to the Ministry of Environment.
These changes reflect Ruto’s continued efforts to restructure his administration and improve government performance.
Conclusion
President Ruto’s latest Cabinet reshuffle signals a push for efficiency and accountability within his administration. The dismissal of Justin Muturi and the appointment of new leaders highlight Ruto’s commitment to making impactful changes in governance. As the new appointees take office, all eyes will be on how they handle their respective dockets.
President Ruto Sacks Public Service CS Justin Muturi in Cabinet Reshuffle
