The National Assembly has published a timetable for the scrutiny of President William Ruto’s Cabinet nominees.
As per the schedule, vetting sessions will span four days from Thursday, August 1, 2024, through Sunday, August 4, 2024, during which at least five nominees will undergo examination.
“In accordance with Article 152 (2) of the Constitution, section 6(4) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap. 7F, and Standing Order 45(3), the Committee on Appointments will conduct Approval Hearings (Vetting) for the nominees from August 1st to 4th, 2024,” reads a notification by Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge.
This announcement follows the receipt of President William Ruto’s communication by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, nominating an additional list of ten individuals for Parliament’s consideration as Cabinet Secretaries.
The vetting will occur at the Mini-Chamber, County Hall, Parliament Buildings, commencing at 8 am daily and will be overseen by the National Assembly’s Committee on Appointments, chaired by the Speaker.
The schedule outlines the following vetting times:
- August 1: Prof. Kithure Kindiki (Interior) at 8 am, Debra Mlongo (Health) at 10 am, Alice Wahome (Lands) at 12 pm, Migos Ogamba (Education) at 3 pm, and Soipan Tuya (Defence) at 5 pm.
- August 2: Andrew Mwihia (Agriculture) at 8 am, Aden Duale (Environment) at 10 am, Eric Muuga (Water) at 12 pm, Davis Chirchir (Transport) and Margaret Ndung’u (ICT).
- August 3: John Mbadi (Treasury) at 12 pm, Salim Mvurya (Trade), Rebecca Miano (Tourism) at 3 pm, Opiyo Wandayi (Energy) at 5 pm, and Kipchumba Murkomen (Sports).
- August 4: Hassan Joho (Mining) at 8 am, Alfred Mutua (Labour) at 10 am, Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives) at 12 pm, Justin Muturi (Public Service) at 3 pm, and Stella Lang’at (Gender) at 5 pm.
Public feedback on the nominated Cabinet Secretaries is welcomed until August 1, 2024, ahead of the vetting process. Clerk Samuel Njoroge also emphasized that nominees must bring their original identification documents, academic certifications, and other pertinent testimonials, including clearances from various regulatory bodies.
As of the latest update, President Ruto has designated 20 nominees to his cabinet, while the positions of Attorney General and Cabinet Secretary for East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), and Regional Development remain vacant. Ruto has aimed to form an inclusive government representing various facets of Kenyan society, including four opposition figures among his recent appointments.