As President William Ruto prepares for an imminent reshuffling of his government, intense lobbying is underway for key positions, especially the highly influential Interior and National Administration docket. The political drama surrounding this move highlights the high stakes involved, with various factions within government and political circles vying for control of Kenya’s security and administrative portfolio.
The anticipated reshuffle comes at a time when top officials, including principal secretaries (PSs), are on edge. Ruto’s decision to reorganize his Cabinet could see some ministers and PSs either reassigned or dismissed, prompting a scramble among politicians from across the political spectrum to position their allies for the most coveted positions. The Interior CS role, in particular, has become a focal point, with several politicians already making discreet moves to stake their claim.
Recently, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki temporarily handed over the Interior docket to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who is now acting Interior CS. This move has sparked a wave of lobbying, particularly from leaders in Western Kenya, who are eager for Mudavadi’s confirmation to the post. They argue that Mudavadi’s leadership experience, coupled with his strong ties to communities in Western Kenya, make him an ideal candidate. Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, a staunch supporter, praised Mudavadi’s qualifications and urged the President to appoint him as the Interior CS to strengthen national security.
While Western Kenya leaders push for Mudavadi, other players are also positioning themselves for the role. One such individual is Raymond Omollo, the current Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Interior. Omollo, who has garnered support from a section of ODM leaders, is reportedly lobbying for the position, hoping to secure an elevation to the Cabinet. According to sources, Omollo recently held a private meeting with ODM leaders at his home in Homa Bay County, where he urged them to rally behind him. In the meeting, Omollo reportedly suggested that with the backing of ODM leader Raila Odinga, he could secure the CS position or, at the very least, retain his role as PS in the powerful Ministry.
Omollo’s push for the Interior CS role appears to be strategic, with rumors circulating that President Ruto is keen on maintaining balance in his government. Ruto’s growing partnership with Raila, following the latter’s support during Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment, has led to speculations that more ODM members could be appointed to key government positions. Reports suggest that President Ruto might not only reshuffle his Cabinet but also reduce the number of PSs from 51 to less than 40, creating space for new faces from his expanded political alliances.
At the heart of this reshuffle is the ongoing deal between President Ruto and Raila Odinga, who is expected to gain additional Cabinet posts and at least 10 Principal Secretary slots as part of the arrangement. The political accommodation is not limited to the Cabinet, as it is expected to extend to key parastatal leadership positions and even ambassadorial slots. The reshuffle is seen as an effort to solidify Ruto’s political future, especially with the looming 2027 General Election.
Raila’s support has been crucial in navigating the political turbulence brought about by Gachagua’s impeachment. Not only did Raila’s camp provide the necessary numbers in Parliament, but it also offered Ruto the political cover needed to weather any fallout from the deputy president’s ousting. Analysts believe that these strategic political moves are aimed at bolstering Ruto’s chances in the upcoming election cycle, securing alliances that will carry him beyond 2027.
Meanwhile, President Ruto’s senior economic adviser, Moses Kuria, has hinted at the formation of a new political vehicle ahead of the 2027 elections. Kuria suggested that Kenya is on the verge of a new political movement, akin to the 2002 rainbow coalition that swept former President Mwai Kibaki into power. According to Kuria, this new political force will reshape Kenya’s political landscape, and those with foresight should align themselves with it.
As the lobbying for the Interior CS position intensifies, the broader political reshuffle remains a critical development that will shape Kenya’s governance for the foreseeable future. Whether Mudavadi, Omollo, or another candidate secures the position, one thing is clear: the battle for power is far from over.
