NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Kwanza administration is on the verge of significant changes including a Cabinet reshuffle as President William Ruto seeks to restore public confidence following two weeks of intense protests that resulted in over 35 deaths and extensive property destruction.
The demonstrations, initially sparked by the contentious Financial Bill 2024, have escalated into broader demands for meaningful reforms across the Government.
Sources within State House and senior government officials indicate that President Ruto is considering these changes as part of a broader strategy to address public dissatisfaction and reinvigorate his administration.
The President is reportedly determined to demonstrate responsiveness to the citizens’ grievances and to ensure that his government is seen as capable and effective.
“The President is deeply concerned about the recent events and the public’s reaction. He understands the need for decisive action to restore confidence in his administration,” said a senior state official who spoke on condition of anonymity to Y News..
“The Cabinet reshuffle is one of the measures being considered to show that the government is taking the people’s concerns seriously.”
Tension is high among top government officials, who are anxiously awaiting their fate.
The possibility of being replaced looms large, particularly for those perceived as underperforming or out of touch with the public’s needs.
A senior government insider revealed that President Ruto has been holding a series of high-level meetings to discuss the potential changes.
“The President has been consulting widely with his advisors and key stakeholders. He wants to ensure that any changes made will have a positive impact on the government’s functionality and public perception,” the insider noted.
The protests, which erupted over what many viewed as a punitive Financial Bill, have morphed into a broader critique of the government’s approach to economic management and governance.
The bill’s provisions, seen as excessively burdensome, ignited widespread anger and led to calls for more substantial and meaningful reforms.
The demonstrations quickly escalated, resulting in violent clashes with security forces and significant loss of life and property.
The protests led to the withdrawal of the Bill by the President amidst fiscal challenges.
Notably, President Ruto called an emergency Cabinet meeting at State House on Thursday morning.
The meeting’s agenda was not immediately revealed.
According to sources, the President is determined to act swiftly to prevent further erosion of public trust.
“The President understands the urgency of the situation. He knows that the people are demanding change, and he is prepared to take bold steps to address their concerns,” said another senior official.
“The reshuffle will likely see the introduction of new faces who can bring fresh energy and ideas to the Cabinet.”
Among those speculated to be at risk are ministers perceived as not effectively managing their portfolios or failing to communicate government policies effectively to the public.
The reshuffle is expected to prioritize individuals with proven track records of competence and public service.
Political analysts suggest that the reshuffle could be a turning point for the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“This is a critical moment for President Ruto. How he handles this reshuffle could define his presidency and his ability to govern effectively,” said political analyst John Waigwa.
“If done correctly, it could restore public confidence and set the stage for more robust governance moving forward.”
The changes are said to go beyond the positions of Cabinet Secretary and Principal Secretaries.
