NAIROBI, Kenya – ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has dismissed claims that retired President Uhuru Kenyatta influenced his appointment to President William Ruto’s Cabinet.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Kabogo addressed speculation tying his nomination to a meeting between Ruto and Kenyatta in December 2022, shortly before the announcement of his Cabinet role.
“Kenya is a vibrant nation with rumours and things like that—people just make up things,” Kabogo said. “It came just after the visit of the President to Ichaweri, but I can tell you for free, I cannot speak for Mutahi Kagwe or Lee Kinyanjui, but I can speak for myself. I’m sure it had nothing to do with that visit.”
Kabogo revealed that his nomination came as a surprise even to him.
He recounted receiving a brief phone call from President Ruto the day before the announcement, during which the President vaguely hinted at a government role but did not disclose specifics.
“The former President did not call me; I haven’t spoken to him in quite a while,” Kabogo clarified. “The only call I got the previous day was from the President, and he said, ‘William, I’m looking at things, and I think there’s something I’m working on.’ He didn’t say anything else, and the next thing I saw, it was on the bulletin. I know it’s hard to believe, but that’s the truth.”
He added, “The conversation with the President was less than a minute, and he said he’d call again, which he didn’t. That’s how it came to me. I was very surprised.”
While admitting his surprise at being chosen, Kabogo said he is committed to delivering results in his role.
“It surprises me as it surprises you,” he said. “I am more than ready for this role. My track record is clear that I can serve. I am learning the ropes quickly. The job is quite a task, but I am up to it.”
