Recently, there has been significant criticism regarding government appointments in Kenya, particularly from allies of President William Ruto. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has openly criticized some of these appointments, arguing that they do not align with the necessary qualifications and competencies. This comes amid a series of appointments where President Ruto has placed political loyalists and former allies in key positions within various state corporations and boards.
For example, Joshua Kutuny, a former Member of Parliament and a notable figure from the Jubilee Party, was appointed as the chairperson of the Kenya Copyright Board despite being an opposition figure during the last election.
Additionally, other notable appointments include Basil Criticos, Naomi Shaban, and Nelson Havi, all of whom have strong political connections and past ties with Ruto’s administration or the previous government.
This wave of appointments has sparked a debate on whether these decisions are based on merit or political loyalty, with critics arguing that the latter seems to be the primary criterion. This ongoing controversy highlights the tension between fulfilling political obligations and ensuring competent governance.