President William Ruto is handed the mantled by South Sudan's Salva Kir after he was elected the new EAC chair.PHOTO:POOL
The recent election of President William Ruto as the new Chairperson of the East African Community (EAC) is undoubtedly a milestone for Kenya.
Taking over from Sudan’s Salva Kiir, whose term ended in November, Ruto’s appointment brings new opportunities for regional integration.
But as Migori County leaders, including Kitayama Marwa Maisori, Augustine Mwise, and Byron Oginga, have rightly pointed out, this is just the beginning.
The real test will be whether President Ruto can translate this new role into meaningful economic progress for Kenya and the entire East African region—while simultaneously addressing critical governance issues back home.
A Moment to Strengthen Regional Economic Ties
The President’s new role in the EAC should not just be a ceremonial one. As Augustine Mwise has astutely noted, Ruto now has a unique opportunity to drive the East African agenda forward, using his position to secure trade agreements, improve infrastructure, and foster economic growth across the region. Ruto must capitalize on this platform to market the EAC on the global stage and secure deals that boost Kenya’s GDP and position it as the undisputed economic hub of East Africa.
However, regional success should be coupled with homegrown reforms. The time is ripe for President Ruto to streamline Kenya’s tax system, reduce the cost of living, and ensure that corruption is rooted out at every level of government.
These steps are crucial not just for Kenya’s economic prosperity, but for maintaining the nation’s leadership within the EAC.
Without addressing these domestic issues, Kenya risks losing its competitive edge and the regional influence that comes with it.
Governance Reform: Time for Transparency and Accountability
But beyond the economic sphere, President Ruto must tackle one of the most pressing issues facing the country: governance.
Byron Oginga’s call for greater transparency in the government’s selection process is a much-needed reminder of the deep flaws that persist in Kenya’s political system. The current system, too often dominated by political patronage, rewards loyalty over competence, and leaves the public service vulnerable to inefficiency and corruption.
Oginga’s plea for an overhaul of the nomination process for Principal Secretaries (PSs) is not only timely but essential.
The government must put an end to the outdated notion that government positions are rewards for political allies.
Instead, appointments must be based on merit, transparency, and integrity. Only by embracing these values will Kenya begin to build a public service that is genuinely accountable to the people.
Youth Inclusion: Kenya’s Greatest Asset
Perhaps the most pressing issue raised by these leaders is the underrepresentation of young people in government.
Despite the fact that the majority of Kenya’s population is under the age of 35, only one youth—Water Cabinet Secretary, Eng. Eric Mugaa—holds a significant leadership position in the Cabinet. This glaring lack of youth representation in Kenya’s leadership is not just a missed opportunity; it’s a fundamental injustice.
The youth are not just the future of Kenya—they are the present. Their energy, creativity, and drive are critical to solving the country’s challenges.
It is therefore unacceptable that the government continues to marginalize them in key decision-making roles. President Ruto must take decisive action to ensure that young people are not only given opportunities to lead but are actively involved in shaping the future of the country.
A Call for a New Kind of Leadership
In this regard, Oginga’s demand for a more inclusive government, where the youth are meaningfully represented in leadership positions, is both urgent and necessary.
This means not only appointing younger individuals to positions of power but also ensuring that they have the resources, support, and authority to make a tangible impact. The youth of Kenya are its greatest asset, and it is time the government truly recognized their value.
The Challenge Ahead: Actions Must Speak Louder Than Words
As President Ruto assumes his new role in the EAC, the challenge is clear. His leadership should not be defined by rhetoric alone but by real, measurable outcomes that benefit both Kenya and the East African region.
From strengthening regional trade to reforming governance and ensuring youth inclusion, Ruto has an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. But that legacy will only be achieved through bold action—not just in East Africa, but right here at home in Kenya.
The Migori leaders’ remarks are more than just congratulations—they are a call to action. President Ruto now has the platform, the influence, and the mandate to drive the change Kenya so desperately needs. The question is: will he seize it?
byronian4@gmail.com
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