President William Ruto is intensifying efforts to remove allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from key positions in both the Executive and Parliament. This political reshuffle has sparked fierce lobbying for roles expected to become vacant.
Simultaneously, over 300 contract workers employed during Gachagua’s tenure at Harambee House Annex have begun receiving termination letters. Sources confirm that the letters, citing the end of their contracts, state that their services are no longer required.
This follows an earlier move in October, where 108 staff members from Gachagua’s office were placed on compulsory leave through letters signed by Principal Administrative Secretary Patrick Mwangi.
Budget Committee Shake-Up
In Parliament, attention has turned to the Budget and Appropriations Committee, one of the National Assembly’s most powerful bodies. Reports suggest Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, the current chair, is likely to be replaced. His alleged neutrality during Gachagua’s impeachment process has reportedly displeased President Ruto.
Ndindi’s decision to remain non-committal during the impeachment, spearheaded by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, has positioned him at odds with the ruling coalition’s leadership. This has paved the way for a contest between Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse and Molo MP Kuria Kimani for the coveted chairmanship.
Mutuse’s candidacy is bolstered by his instrumental role in moving the historic impeachment motion against Gachagua, which led to the Deputy President’s unprecedented ouster. However, there are growing calls to back Kuria Kimani as a strategic move to soothe tensions in the Mt Kenya region, which has shown signs of discontent following Gachagua’s removal.
As lobbying intensifies, the impending reshuffles are set to redefine Kenya’s political landscape, reflecting President Ruto’s firm grip on power.
