President William Ruto made significant appointments to various key commissions, marking a shift in leadership and governance structures. Among the notable changes was the appointment of Rehema Jaldesa, the former Isiolo Woman Representative, as the new Chairperson of the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC). This move follows the conclusion of Dr. Joyce Mutinda’s tenure as the head of the commission.
Jaldesa, who previously served as a Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) for Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage under the Jubilee administration, takes over the position at a time when the commission’s mandate has become increasingly crucial in advancing the rights and interests of marginalized groups in Kenya. Her appointment was made in accordance with the powers conferred by Article 250(2) of the Kenyan Constitution, as stated in the official Gazette notice from the President.
In her new role, Jaldesa will oversee the NGEC, an institution established by the National Gender and Equality Commission Act, 2011. The commission’s primary focus is on advocating for special interest groups, including women, youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), children, elderly citizens, minorities, and other marginalized communities. Through its work, the NGEC aims to ensure that gender equality and fairness are embedded in all spheres of governance and society.
Jaldesa’s appointment is expected to bring a wealth of experience to the commission. Not only has she served as a legislator, but her educational background further strengthens her credentials. She holds a Master’s degree in Governance and Leadership from Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology, and a Bachelor’s degree in Leadership and Management from St. Paul’s University. These qualifications are expected to support her in navigating the complex social issues facing Kenya, particularly in relation to gender and equality.
In addition to Jaldesa’s appointment, President Ruto also made another key appointment within the Gender and Equality Commission, bringing Michael Nzomo on board as a member. This further strengthens the commission’s leadership as it continues its mission to safeguard the rights of marginalized communities across the country.
Beyond the NGEC, President Ruto made other significant appointments to various commissions. Among them was the selection of Charles Orinda Dulo as the new Chairperson of the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ), also known as the Ombudsman. Dulo’s appointment is in line with Section 11(9) of the Commission on Administrative Justice Act, and he will be tasked with ensuring the commission’s role in promoting good governance and the protection of individual rights.
Additionally, former Starehe Member of Parliament Charles Njagua Kanyi (commonly known as Jaguar) and Dorothy Kimengech were appointed as members of the Ombudsman office. These appointments are part of the President’s broader strategy to bolster institutional accountability and administrative justice in Kenya.
The President also made key changes to the Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA), appointing Issack Ahmed Hassan as its new chairperson. The seven additional members appointed to the IPOA, which includes individuals such as Ann Wanjiku Mwangi, Micah Onyiego Nyakego, and Boniface Kipkemoi Samati, will play a crucial role in enhancing police oversight and ensuring the security sector remains accountable to the public.
These appointments reflect President Ruto’s continued commitment to reinforcing key institutions responsible for ensuring equity and justice across Kenyan society. By focusing on leadership in critical sectors like gender equality, administrative justice, and policing, Ruto appears determined to tackle the challenges of governance with experienced and diverse individuals.
As Jaldesa steps into her new role at the NGEC, she faces the important task of addressing Kenya’s gender disparities and advancing the rights of vulnerable populations. Her leadership could have a lasting impact on the commission’s work in empowering marginalized communities, especially as the country continues to strive for greater inclusivity and fairness.
