Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS) nominee Geoffrey Ruku has declared his net worth to be Ksh.377 million. Appearing before Parliament’s vetting committee on Monday, the Mbeere North MP and close ally of President William Ruto pledged to uphold integrity, fairness, and inclusivity in the public service if approved.
Ruku told lawmakers that he is committed to representing all Kenyan communities fairly, with a particular focus on minority groups and persons living with disabilities. “I will serve without fear or favour,” he said. “I will streamline unemployment issues and create job opportunities without nepotism.”
To address long-standing issues in the public sector, Ruku vowed to introduce a digital system to eliminate ghost workers a move aimed at improving efficiency and curbing wastage of public funds. He also declared a zero-tolerance stance on corruption, aligning with the administration’s promise to reform public service delivery.
Ruku is notably remembered for sponsoring the contentious Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024, which sought to regulate public protests. The proposed legislation faced heavy backlash from civil society and human rights activists, who argued it would infringe on constitutional freedoms under Article 37. Amid the uproar, Ruku withdrew the bill but defended its intent during the vetting.
“My aim was never to silence demonstrators,” he said. “No life should be lost because of demonstrations; no property should be destroyed. We must also protect those not demonstrating.”
His nomination follows the dismissal of Justin Muturi, who had served as Public Service CS. Muturi fell out with the Ruto administration over his criticism of state actions during last year’s anti-government protests, particularly the alleged abduction and killing of youth. His son was among those reportedly abducted. Muturi had boycotted Cabinet meetings in protest, demanding accountability and justice.
Ruku’s vetting marks a critical moment for the Ruto government as it seeks to reinforce loyalty within its Cabinet while navigating public discontent and demands for accountability. As the vetting process concludes, the spotlight remains on whether Ruku will deliver on his promises of transparency, digital reform, and equitable public service.
