Moses Kuria, the former Public Service Cabinet Secretary (CS) of Kenya, has been navigating a challenging period since his dismissal from the Cabinet by President William Ruto. His recent remarks on Citizen TV shed light on the emotional toll and public scrutiny that have come with his departure from public service.
Kuria revealed that he has been the target of harsh messages from some Kenyans since his dismissal. One particularly stinging message offered him a job as a mortuary attendant, a pointed jab that underscores the intensity of the criticism he has faced. “Somebody sent me a message on my phone offering me a job ati ‘hey niaje mzito, kuna job hapa kwa mortuary, unaonaje? Utaichukua?’ It’s harsh, it’s terrible,” Kuria recounted. This kind of trolling reflects a broader challenge that public figures often face, where their vulnerabilities are exploited for ridicule.
The former CS emphasized his humanity in the face of such attacks. “Having done the work I have done for this country within a short period, and I agree with the need for change and having a clear mind, of course, I am human. It is not easy and I sympathise with them,” he said. This sentiment highlights the often-overlooked emotional struggles that public figures endure, particularly when they transition out of their roles.
Kuria also called out a reputable media house for what he described as a daily routine of trolling against him. “There’s a particular media house which has dedicated 10 minutes of their time every morning to trolling me. It is not easy,” he lamented. This statement brings to light the complex relationship between public figures and the media, where the latter’s coverage can significantly impact the former’s public perception and personal well-being.
Despite these challenges, Kuria is looking ahead with a focus on personal development and privacy. He expressed a desire to lead a more private life now that he is no longer in public service. “I am doing my private things, I am writing my book. I started writing my book in January. I have had a lot of invitations even before to speak at international forums and events about global issues. I am not short of things to do,” Kuria stated.
The book Kuria is working on promises to provide insights into his experiences and perspectives gained during his time in public service. It is also an opportunity for him to share his vision for Kenya’s future. His willingness to engage in international dialogues and lectures suggests a continued commitment to influencing policy and discourse on a global scale.
Kuria’s experience serves as a reminder of the personal costs associated with public service. The scrutiny and criticism that come with such roles can be overwhelming, particularly when they extend into one’s personal life. However, Kuria’s response also highlights the resilience and adaptability required to navigate these challenges. His focus on writing and international engagement indicates a strategic shift towards leveraging his expertise in new and impactful ways.
In a broader context, Kuria’s story underscores the importance of supporting public figures as they transition out of office. Providing resources and platforms for them to continue contributing to society can help mitigate the negative impacts of public scrutiny and ensure that their expertise is not lost. As Moses Kuria embarks on this new chapter, his journey will undoubtedly continue to be a source of interest and inspiration for many.
