Ruto's Bold Move: Echoes of Kibaki in Kenya's Cabinet Dissolution

Amid widespread anti-government protests, President William Ruto has made a historic decision to dismiss his entire Cabinet, unsettling the nation in recent weeks. In a 12-minute address, Ruto assured the public that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi would not be affected by these sweeping changes. He emphasized the need for extensive consultations across various sectors before forming a new cabinet, refraining from providing specific timelines. Ruto's actions draw parallels to former President Mwai Kibaki's move in 2005 when he dissolved his cabinet following a national referendum to appease public discontent.

Background

In the 2005 referendum, over 3.5 million Kenyans rejected a draft constitution strongly supported by Kibaki. Following the referendum results, Kibaki asserted the necessity of reorganizing his government to enhance cohesion and better serve the nation. Utilizing his constitutional authority, Kibaki directed that all ministerial and assistant ministerial positions be vacated immediately, reflecting a turbulent period marked by internal conflicts within the National Rainbow Coalition. The draft constitution, conceived to establish more democratic governance within Kibaki's initial 100 days in office, became a contentious issue, stirring discord among coalition partners and opposition figures alike.

Political Turmoil and Reform Efforts

Before the 2002 elections, coalition agreements between the ruling party and affiliated politicians promised transformative governance reforms. However, unmet expectations led to bitter divisions, exacerbating tensions between factions and delaying crucial legislative advancements. Critics of the proposed constitution, including certain cabinet members, criticized its provisions as overly empowering the presidency, reminiscent of the authoritarian rule under Daniel Moi. Conversely, proponents argued that presidential powers, particularly in appointments, would be subject to rigorous parliamentary oversight, safeguarding against potential abuses of authority.

Despite an extensive public campaign, Kibaki failed to garner sufficient voter support for the draft constitution, underscoring challenges in post-election reconciliation efforts. During this period, opposition leader William Ruto criticized Kibaki's governance approach, urging greater respect for established institutional frameworks and coalition agreements. In a 2005 interview with VOA, Ruto highlighted the necessity for Kibaki to honor coalition commitments, emphasizing the importance of institutional integrity amidst political discord.

Future Outlook

Reflecting on Kibaki's transitional period, former Presidential Press Service head Isiah Kabira recalled a brief interim governance structure led by Vice President Moody Awori and permanent secretaries before a new cabinet was appointed. President Ruto echoed similar sentiments, ensuring uninterrupted government operations under the stewardship of principal secretaries and relevant officials during the transitional phase. The upcoming reconstitution of the cabinet remains a pivotal juncture in Ruto's administration, poised to redefine policy priorities and address public expectations amid ongoing socio-political challenges.

QUICK BITES

President Ruto Dismisses Entire Cabinet and Attorney General, Excludes Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi

President William Ruto on Thursday, July 11, 2024, dismissed his entire Cabinet and the Attorney General, except Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. The affected officials include:

• Njuguna Ndung’u - National Treasury and Planning

• Aisha Jumwa - Gender, Culture, the Arts & Heritage

• Alice Wahome - Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development

• Alfred Mutua, EGH - Tourism & Wildlife

• Rebecca Miano - Investments, Trade & Industry

• Roselinda Soipan Tuya - Environment and Forestry

• Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen - Roads and Transport

• Peninah Malonza, OGW - East African Community, The ASALs & Regional Development

• Davis Chirchir - Energy and Petroleum

• Ababu Namwamba - Youth Affairs and Sports

• Simon Chelugui - Co-operatives and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development

• Salim Mvurya - Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs

• Florence Bore - Labour and Social Protection

• Eliud Owalo - Information, Communications and the Digital Economy

• Susan Nakhumicha Wafula – Health

• Moses K. Kuria, HSC - Public Service, Performance & Delivery Management

• Justin Bedan Njoka Muturi - Attorney-General

• Mercy Kiiru Wanjau - Secretary to the Cabinet

• Aden Duale – Defence

• Alice Wahome - Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development

• Mithika Linturi - Agriculture and Livestock Development

• Ezekiel Machogu – Education

Former CS Moses Kuria Swiftly Updates Profile Post Cabinet Dissolution

While most just added ‘former’ to their titles, Ex-Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria swiftly removed his cabinet title from his X profile following President William Ruto's announcement dissolving the entire Cabinet. The only remaining information on Kuria's X profile is his Head of State Commendation Award from former President Mwai Kibaki on December 12, 2009. Ruto noted that the decision was influenced by reflections on public sentiment.

Mike Muchiri Released After Brief Detention

Muchiri was briefly detained during an Instagram LIVE session with fans, where he informed them of his arrest by suspicious individuals, later identified as police officers, near Kasarani. The activist, known for his vocal stance against the government, was booked at the Kasarani police station. His release was announced by activist Boniface Mwangi, who indicated the timing coincided with another event to potentially overshadow Muchiri's arrest. Known for translating the Finance Bill into various Kenyan languages to broaden its accessibility, Muchiri has emerged as a prominent voice in recent protests against government policies.

Uganda: 24-Year-Old Sentenced to Six Years for Insulting President Museveni on TikTok

Edward Awebwa has been convicted of hate speech and spreading false information about President Yoweri Museveni, First Lady Janet Museveni, and son Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who commands the military. Awebwa was found guilty of sharing abusive content alleging tax increases under President Museveni. He admitted to the charges and requested forgiveness. The magistrate noted Awebwa's plea for leniency but remarked on his apparent lack of remorse for his actions.

Felicity Shiru Delays Marriage Plans to Thee Pluto Amid Religious Differences

Content creator Felicity Shiru recently discussed her desire to marry Thee Pluto but mentioned their religious differences as a potential hurdle. She expressed that while Thee Pluto is Muslim and she is Christian, they are in ongoing discussions about their wedding plans. Felicity shared that while she had once envisioned getting married later in life after focusing on her career, life took a different turn, and now she has a family. She admitted that although she would like a white wedding, there is a dialogue between her and Thee Pluto about their religious preferences for the ceremony. Felicity clarified that she is not considering converting to Islam, emphasizing that such a decision requires thorough understanding and is not something she is currently prepared for. Despite the uncertainties surrounding the timing, she remains optimistic that their wedding will happen eventually.