The United States has urged the Kenyan government to ensure that candidates for cabinet positions meet stringent integrity qualifications before their appointments.
In a statement released on X early Thursday, shortly before the vetting process began, the US Embassy in Kenya reaffirmed its support for Kenya’s dedication to democratic principles and good governance.
The embassy highlighted that integrity in leadership is essential for the nation’s prosperity and stability.
“As Kenyans begin the vetting of Cabinet nominees today, we underscore the critical importance of integrity in public service and the National Assembly’s crucial role in enforcing Chapter Six of Kenya’s Constitution,” the embassy stated on X.
Chapter Six of the Constitution mandates that all state officers uphold the highest standards of integrity, competence, and diligence, ensuring accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct in public service.
Enforcing Chapter Six is vital for promoting a transparent and effective government. The National Assembly’s role in the vetting process is crucial to ensuring that only those with impeccable ethical standards are appointed to public office.
The US Embassy’s statement has sparked concerns among Kenyans about some Cabinet nominees who have faced allegations of corruption and integrity issues. Many citizens have called for a rigorous vetting process to ensure that only those with clean records and a commitment to ethical governance are appointed.
The 22 nominees scheduled for vetting, including 10 from the previous Cabinet, will appear before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments from Thursday through Sunday.
The vetting schedule is as follows:
- Thursday: Kithure Kindiki (Interior), Debra Barasa (Health), Alice Wahome (Lands), Julius Ogamba (Education), Soipan Tuya (Defence).
- Friday: Andrew Mwihia (Agriculture), Aden Duale (Environment), Eric Muriithi (Water), Davis Chirchir (Transport), Magaret Ndung’u (ICT).
- Saturday: John Mbadi (Treasury), Salim Mvurya (Trade), Rebecca Miano (Tourism), Kipchumba Murkomen (Sports).
- Sunday: Ali Hassan Joho (Mining), Alfred Mutua (Labour), Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives), Justin Muturi (Public Service), Stella Lang’at (Gender).
