The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has voiced strong criticism against President William Ruto’s recent cabinet reshuffle, accusing him of disregarding constitutional provisions on ethnic and gender inclusivity.
The reshuffle has sparked heated debate across the nation, with KHRC urging accountability from key constitutional bodies.
Allegations of Ethnic and Gender Imbalance
The KHRC has raised alarm over the disproportionate representation in the proposed cabinet. According to their statement, the appointments heavily favor the Mt. Kenya region, which will control 35% of cabinet positions if the National Assembly approves the nominations of Mutahi Kagwe, William Kabogo, and Lee Kinyanjui. 
“Seven out of 20 cabinet secretaries will hail from the Mt. Kenya region, excluding the President, Deputy President, and Attorney General,” the Commission revealed, emphasizing that this skewed representation undermines Articles 10, 27, and 130 of Kenya’s Constitution.
Critique of Key Appointments
In addition to concerns about regional imbalance, the KHRC spotlighted the inclusion of five allies of former President Uhuru Kenyatta from Mt. Kenya in key cabinet roles. The Commission argued that this move contradicts Ruto’s previous campaign messaging centered on “hustlers vs dynasties.”
“It is hypocritical for Ruto to impeach Gachagua for ethnic chauvinism while engaging in worse forms of ethnic, regional, and gender discrimination for political survival,” KHRC asserted in a strongly worded statement.
Constitutional Accountability Called Into Question
KHRC has called upon constitutional watchdogs such as the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to act swiftly against what they describe as blatant constitutional violations.
“These bodies must not remain silent in the face of these actions. Their inaction erodes the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusivity enshrined in our Constitution,” the Commission stated.
The Cabinet Reshuffle in Context
On Thursday, President Ruto nominated Mutahi Kagwe as the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Agriculture and Livestock Development, while William Kabogo and Lee Kinyanjui were chosen to head the Ministries of Investments, Trade, and Industry, and Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, respectively.
The reshuffle, seen by some as a strategic political maneuver, has drawn mixed reactions.
While supporters claim the changes represent inclusivity, critics argue they are a calculated bid to regain political favor in the Mt. Kenya region, especially following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
What Lies Ahead for Kenya’s Cabinet?
The proposed appointments now await approval by the National Assembly, which has the authority to accept or reject the nominations. As the debate intensifies, the KHRC’s call for vigilance may serve as a reminder of the constitutional mandates that govern Kenya’s leadership.
Do you think these cabinet changes align with Kenya’s principles of equity and diversity? Share your thoughts below.
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