Ruto Plans to Give Raila Plum Govt Jobs as PS Positions to Be Shared Politically

By Alex Otunga, The Dispatch Digital

Panic has swept through top ministry officials following President William Ruto’s recent announcement of impending government reforms. As reported by The Dispatch Digital, the government has opened applications for all Principal Secretary (PS) positions, inviting qualified Kenyans to apply. This move is part of a broader restructuring initiative, prompted by the perception that Ruto’s 2022 government formation heavily favoured two ethnic communities, with 80% of PS positions allocated to them, leaving the remaining 20% to be shared among the other 43 communities.

The recruitment process will be overseen by the Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei. The announcement comes amidst growing public dissatisfaction, with many Kenyans calling for the entire PS team to be replaced due to alleged incompetence and corruption, particularly within key ministries such as Education and Transport.

According to the Kenyan Constitution, Article 155(3)(a) mandates the Public Service Commission (PSC) to recommend individuals for nomination and appointment as Principal Secretaries. Reliable sources have disclosed that all current PSs are required to reapply for their positions. Prospective applicants must meet the stringent requirements outlined in Chapter 6 of the Constitution, which includes clearance from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), and a Certificate of Good Conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). Additionally, applicants must have a general understanding of government functions and at least 15 years of managerial experience.

Kenyans are keenly watching to see if the government will adopt a new approach in appointing ministry managers, prioritizing competence and integrity while ensuring a fair representation of all communities. There are also strong indications that political agreements may influence the appointments, with speculation that President Ruto has reached a deal with Azimio leader Raila Odinga to allocate government positions. Rumors suggest that Raila could be granted between 10 and 20 PS slots, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua three, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi three, Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula two, and Foreign Affairs CS Alfred Mutua two.

It remains unclear whether the president will retain all 51 PS positions or reduce the number as part of the ongoing restructuring to curb government expenditure. The last PS appointments saw a significant allocation to Kikuyus, followed by Kalenjins, Luhyas, Kambas, and Somalis. The public is eager to see how the president will navigate this politically charged process, and whether he will respond to the growing demands from the Gen Z demographic for more inclusive and merit-based appointments.