Kericho County Governor Eric Mutai has made significant changes to his administration by firing six County Executive Committee Members (CECs) in a major reshuffle aimed at enhancing service delivery. The dismissed officials include Rosemary Rop (Water, Environment, Energy, Forestry, and Natural Resources), Leonard Ngetich (Trade, Industrialization, and Tourism), Brian Langat (Lands, Housing, and Physical Planning), Edna Tonui (Public Service Management), Benard Bii (Roads, Public Works, and Transport), and Kipruto Malel.
This latest reshuffle is the fourth since Governor Mutai assumed office and reflects his ongoing efforts to reorganize the county’s leadership structure to address service delivery challenges effectively. The governor expressed his intention to align his administration with his development agenda, which he believes is critical to meeting the needs of Kericho residents.
New Appointments and Reassignments
To fill the vacant positions, Governor Mutai has nominated six new CECs whose appointments are subject to vetting by the Kericho County Assembly. The nominees include:
- Magerer Langat, a former Kipkelion Member of Parliament, for the Agriculture, Livestock, and Cooperatives docket.
- Dr. David Ekuwam, a seasoned health expert, for the Health Services portfolio.
- Jonathan Korir, who will take charge of Public Service Management.
- Emily Kirui, nominated for Trade, Industrialization, and Tourism.
- Joseph Korir, selected for Lands, Housing, and Physical Planning.
- Philemon Kurgat, designated to oversee Water, Environment, Energy, Forestry, and Natural Resources.
Additionally, existing cabinet members have been reassigned to different departments. Brenda Bii, previously in charge of Health Services, has been moved to the Department of Roads, Public Works, and Transport. Beatrice Kaptich has been reassigned to the Department of Information, E-Government, Youth Affairs, and Sports.
Governor Mutai’s Vision for Kericho County
Governor Mutai stated that the reshuffle was necessary to inject fresh energy and expertise into his administration. “Kericho residents deserve the best in terms of service delivery. My administration is focused on ensuring that our resources are managed effectively and that development projects are implemented efficiently,” he said during the announcement.
He further emphasized that the changes would help bridge gaps in governance and accelerate the implementation of key projects in agriculture, infrastructure, health, and tourism. These sectors are considered critical to Kericho’s socio-economic development, with agriculture being the backbone of the county’s economy.
Reaction to the Reshuffle
The reshuffle has elicited mixed reactions among political observers and residents. Supporters of the governor commend the bold move, citing it as a proactive step to address inefficiencies in county leadership. They argue that frequent changes in the executive team demonstrate the governor’s commitment to accountability and results.
However, critics have raised concerns over the frequent reshuffles, questioning whether the disruptions might affect continuity in implementing development programs. They argue that constant changes in leadership could undermine morale among staff and lead to stalled projects.
Looking Ahead
The nominees are now set to undergo a rigorous vetting process by the Kericho County Assembly, where their qualifications and suitability for the positions will be assessed. If approved, they will join the county executive team at a crucial time when Kericho is striving to meet ambitious development targets.
Governor Mutai has urged the new appointees to prioritize service delivery and embrace teamwork to achieve the county’s goals. He also called on residents to support the new team and hold them accountable to ensure that public resources are utilized for the benefit of all.
This reshuffle underscores Governor Mutai’s resolve to refine his administration and address the challenges faced by Kericho County. As the county awaits the assembly’s decision on the nominees, all eyes remain on the unfolding dynamics of governance in Kericho.
