Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary (CS) Opiyo Wandayi has reiterated his commitment to his role in President William Ruto’s administration, emphasizing that his focus is on executing government policies rather than criticizing them. Speaking in Siaya on Saturday, Wandayi addressed concerns raised by a section of ODM leaders who have been urging Cabinet members from their party to critique the government.
Wandayi clarified that his responsibility as a Cabinet member is to ensure the effective implementation of policies under the current administration, a task he intends to perform diligently. He dismissed calls for him to join in criticizing the government, stating that it is neither his mandate nor appropriate for a member of the executive to engage in such activities.
“It is your work if you are outside the Cabinet to criticize the government. Nobody has stopped you, and you can continue doing it until the cows come back home,” Wandayi remarked. “However, don’t expect me to join you in criticizing the executive. That can’t be my work. My job is to execute, and I will continue to do it properly.”
The CS also welcomed constructive criticism from the public and other stakeholders, emphasizing that it helps improve service delivery. He encouraged those critiquing the government to do so responsibly and constructively, as this would ensure better governance and accountability.
“I also want to be critiqued as a member of the executive so that I can deliver services properly. Constructive feedback is important, but as a Cabinet member, my priority remains on execution rather than criticism,” he added.
Wandayi also pointed out that Kenya has witnessed significant positive changes since President Ruto’s administration began last year. He expressed confidence in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises, urging Kenyans to remain focused on progress.
His remarks were seen as a response to growing discontent among some ODM leaders, who argue that party members in the Cabinet should be more vocal in highlighting the administration’s shortcomings. The leaders, aligned with the opposition wing under Raila Odinga, have questioned the neutrality of ODM members serving in Ruto’s government.
Wandayi’s appointment, along with other opposition-affiliated leaders, came after Ruto reshuffled his Cabinet last year, bringing in members from opposition parties to foster inclusivity. Despite these calls for criticism, Wandayi remains steadfast in his role, focusing on execution as his primary duty.
