The vetting process for President William Ruto’s second Cabinet has officially begun, with five key Cabinet secretary nominees set to face intense scrutiny from the parliamentary committee on appointments today, August 1. The nominees are tasked with addressing pressing national issues and demonstrating their readiness to handle their respective portfolios.
The vetting schedule is as follows:
- Prof. Kithure Kindiki – Nominee for Interior and National Administration
- Dr. Debra Mlongo Barasa – Nominee for Health
- Alice Wahome – Nominee for Lands
- Julius Ogamba – Nominee for Education
- Soipan Tuya – Nominee for Defence
Prof. Kithure Kindiki, returning for the same role he previously held, will be scrutinized on his previous tenure and the effectiveness of his responses to security challenges, including recent incidents like the Shakahola killings and the abduction of anti-government protesters. His financial disclosures from the last vetting, showing a net worth of Sh544 million, will also be reviewed for any changes.
Dr. Debra Mlongo Barasa, stepping into the Health ministry, faces the challenge of addressing ongoing issues such as the implementation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement with doctors and the transition from the National Hospital Insurance Fund to the Social Health Insurance Fund. Her ability to navigate these complex issues will be closely observed.
Alice Wahome, the nominee for Lands, must address concerns about the handling of affordable housing contributions, digitization of land records, and rampant land grabbing. Her previous net worth of Sh21.4 million will be examined for any changes.
Julius Ogamba, if approved, will confront immediate issues such as a potential teachers’ strike and the recruitment and conversion of teachers to permanent positions amid budget constraints. His vetting will also involve discussions with PS Higher Education and Research Beatrice Inyangala and the CEO of University Funding about the new university funding model.
Soipan Tuya, the nominee for Defence, will be questioned about recent military deployments in Nairobi during anti-government protests and the status of military investigations and equipment. Her previous net worth of Sh156 million will be reviewed.
The committee will conclude the vetting on Sunday, August 4, with a report expected to be tabled in the National Assembly on Tuesday, August 6. The House will then debate the report over two days before making a decision on the nominees.
The public is encouraged to participate in the vetting process by submitting written statements contesting the suitability of any candidate, as outlined in Section 6 (9) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, 2021. Notification of the hearings was provided in accordance with Section 6 (4) of the Act and Article 118 of the Constitution.
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