Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has expressed his full support for his successor, Geoffrey Ruku, following his appointment to the Cabinet by President William Ruto. Speaking in an interview with NTV on Friday, Muturi emphasized that he had no issue with Ruku’s new role, asserting, “I have no problem with Ruku. I’m the one who brought him up.”
Muturi, who was dismissed from his position as CS on March 26, said that he had played a significant role in shaping Ruku’s political career. According to Muturi, he has known Ruku for many years, having seen him grow politically since his university days. Ruku’s early career was marked by ambition, as he contested for a councillor position after graduating. Despite his early aggressiveness, Muturi believes that Ruku was merely navigating the challenges of entering politics.
The former CS revealed that it was President Ruto who first introduced Ruku to him, aiming to prevent a possible fallout after UDA nominations. Muturi explained that when Ruku was eyeing the Mbeere North parliamentary seat, President Ruto called him to suggest that he give Ruku the party ticket to avoid tensions within the party. Muturi agreed, citing his knowledge of Ruku’s potential and ambition, and expressed confidence in his ability to serve.
Muturi also mentioned that he supported Ruku in the 2017 elections when he ran for the Embu Senatorial seat, a testament to his long-standing mentorship of the politician. “I have no problem with Ruku becoming CS,” Muturi reiterated, highlighting the political bond and mutual respect between the two.
Ruku, who was elected Mbeere North MP in 2022, won the seat on the DP ticket with 17,069 votes, defeating three other candidates. Despite previous losses in the 2013 and 2017 elections, Ruku’s persistence paid off, and his appointment to the Cabinet marks a significant milestone in his political career.
This endorsement from Muturi signals continued political alignment and support for Ruku’s leadership, reinforcing the idea of mentorship and generational leadership in Kenyan politics.
