NAIROBI, Kenya- In an unprecedented move, President William Ruto has dismissed all his Cabinet Secretaries in response to massive protests led by GenZ demonstrators across Kenya.
The sweeping purge, which also includes Attorney General Justin Muturi, marks a significant shake-up in the government.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is the only senior official spared in this dramatic overhaul, while Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua retains his position since he was jointly elected with the President.
“I will immediately engage in extensive consultations across different sectors and political formations and other Kenyans both in public and private with the aim of setting up a broad-based government that will assist me in accelerating and expediting the necessary urgent and irreversible implementation of the program that we have to deal with the burden of debt,” the President said in a state address to the country.
Experts and a section of Kenyans said the decision underscores the urgency of addressing the demands for meaningful reforms and accountability within the government.
The protests, which have been characterized by the active participation of the youth, have called for an end to corruption, unemployment, and poor governance.
The GenZ movement, driven by frustration and anger over the lack of opportunities and transparency, has made it clear that the status quo is no longer acceptable.
President Ruto’s decision to dismiss his entire Cabinet is seen as a direct response to the growing unrest and a bold step towards addressing the grievances of the youth.
He said the move is expected to pave the way for a new team of leaders who will be tasked with implementing the necessary reforms and restoring public trust in the government.
Principal Secretaries are expected to run the Ministries pending the appointment of a new “broad” Cabinet.
The purge has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters hail it as a decisive action that demonstrates the President’s commitment to change.
“As the nation waits for the announcement of the new Cabinet, all eyes are on President Ruto and his next steps in steering Kenya towards a more transparent and accountable governance structure,” Political commentator John Waigwa said.
New faces, including the allies of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga are expected to be part of the new Cabinet.
