Kimilili Member of Parliament (MP) Didmus Barasa has appealed to President William Ruto to consider regional balance in the reconstitution of his cabinet as speculation is rife that more changes in government are imminent.
In a statement on Friday, March 21, 2025, Barasa, who is an ally of Ruto in the Western region, called on the Head of State to ensure that the new line-up of cabinet secretaries, heads of state agencies, and directors of commissions does not overlook tribal discriminations of the past.
“Your Excellency William Ruto, thank you for the shake-up at the PS level to enhance inclusivity. As you now focus on CSs, do not overlook the deep-rooted tribal discrimination and exclusivity that thrive among heads of state agencies, mid-level civil servants, directors of constitutional commissions, financial institutions, commercial and manufacturing sectors, regulatory bodies, and public universities,” Barasa urged.
Inclusivity and fairness
“These areas require urgent reforms to ensure fairness and inclusivity at all levels of government and public service.”
The remarks come just a day after Ruto made a shakeup in the offices of Principal Secretaries (PSs), transferring a number of the state officials and removing some from their offices to other duties.
In the recent reorganization, controversial PS in the State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Edward Kisiang’ani was removed from office and made an advisor in the President’s Council of Economic Advisors.
Changes
Kisiang’ani is set to be replaced by nominee Stephen Isaboke upon his approval by the National Assembly.
Similarly, Amos Gathecha was equally removed from the office of the Principal Secretary of Public Service and made the deputy head of Public Service.
With the newly signed pact with ODM, Ruto made a raft of changes, which is seen to have included loyalists of Raila Odinga in the government.
Former ODM nominated Senator Judith Pareno has been nominated to serve as the PS for Justice, Human Rights & Constitutional Affairs in the Office of the Attorney General and State Department for Justice.
Dr. Oluga Fredrick Ouma has also been nominated to be the PS for the State Department for Medical Services in the Ministry of Health, while his predecessor, Harry Kimtai, has been moved to the State Department for Mining in the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy & Maritime Affairs.
Other people who were nominated include Carren Ageng’o Achieng to be the PS, State Department for Children Welfare Services in the Ministry of Labour & Social Protection; Fikirini Katoi Kahindi to be the PS, State Department for Youth Affairs in the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports; and Michael Lenasalion to be the State Department for Devolution in the Office of the Deputy President upon approval.
