In a surprising turn of events, Nominated MP John Mbadi expressed gratitude for his unexpected nomination to the Cabinet as Treasury CS by President William Ruto. Shortly after being named among ten other nominees, Mbadi conveyed his thanks to the President and expressed his appreciation for the opportunity.
President Ruto unveiled the second batch of Cabinet nominees on Wednesday, completing the lineup with the exception of the Attorney General and the proposed East African Community and Regional Development office holder. Rebecca Miano, initially slated for the Attorney General role, was instead appointed to oversee the Tourism and Wildlife docket.
Mbadi, an ally of ODM leader Raila Odinga, was included in the second round of nominations alongside other figures aligned with Raila. Opiyo Wandayi was assigned the Energy portfolio, former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho secured the Mining ministry, and Wycliffe Oparanya was designated for the Cooperatives docket.
Additionally, Ruto reappointed his allies to various ministries. Former Transport and Roads CS Kipchumba Murkomen will lead the Ministry of Youths and Sports, Justin Muturi will oversee Public Service, Salim Mvurya will head Trade, and Alfred Mutua will manage Labour. Stella Langa’t, a newcomer, was named CS nominee for Gender, Culture, and Heritage.
Mbadi underscored that the Cabinet lineup not only signifies a step towards national unity but also reflects Ruto’s vision for Kenya, transcending political affiliations and ethnic considerations.
“I also wish to extend sincere thanks to former Prime Minister Hon Raila Odinga for his enduring trust in me over the years. I assure the Kenyan people that I will uphold the government’s commitment to effective and quality service delivery,” Mbadi affirmed.
Pending vetting and approval by the National Assembly, Mbadi emphasized his readiness to collaborate fully with the President and the Cabinet in addressing the country’s current economic challenges.
“The responsibilities entrusted to me are significant, particularly given the deep economic difficulties facing our nation at this time,” Mbadi acknowledged.
Earlier, on Tuesday, Ruto had submitted the names of the initial ten CS nominees to Parliament for approval, following the first group’s announcement on July 19. Speaker Moses Wetang’ula assured swift action by forwarding the names to the Committee on Appointments for review.
“The Committee on Appointments is expected to promptly notify the nominees and the public, commence approval hearings, and present its report to the House at the earliest opportunity to meet statutory deadlines,” Speaker Wetang’ula confirmed.
Under Section 8 of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, 2011, the committee has 28 days to evaluate the nominees and submit its findings to the House.
