John Mbadi, the Treasury Cabinet Secretary nominee, articulated his qualifications and extensive experience during his vetting process on Saturday. With a rich background in finance, leadership, and politics, Mbadi made a compelling case for why he is the best candidate for the Treasury position.
Extensive Experience in Financial Oversight
For the past 15 years, Mbadi has been a constant presence in parliament, serving as a member of the budget and appropriations committee. This committee is pivotal in preparing the national budget, giving Mbadi a deep understanding of the country’s financial workings. He highlighted this experience during his vetting, stating, “I have always been a member of the budget and appropriations committee, which has the responsibility and mandate to prepare the country’s budget.”
Government Coordination and Supervision
Mbadi’s tenure as an assistant minister in the Office of the Prime Minister further underscores his suitability for the Treasury position. In this role, he was responsible for supervising and coordinating government functions across all ministries, a duty closely aligned with the responsibilities of the Treasury. “During this time, I interacted a lot with the Kenyan budget and the macro-economic policies. I can attest that I have interacted with the budget review outlook paper which is prepared every year. I am comfortable with how to generate budget policy statements,” Mbadi asserted.
Leadership Roles and Public Accountability
Currently, Mbadi serves as the chair of the influential Public Accounts Committee, which holds ministries, departments, and agencies accountable. This role has fortified his leadership and oversight capabilities, essential traits for the Treasury CS role. His career spans 28 years in finance, leadership, and politics, providing him with a robust foundation for managing the nation’s finances.
Political and Educational Background
Mbadi’s political journey began in 2007 when he was elected to represent the Gwassi Constituency in the National Assembly of Kenya. He later represented the Suba South Constituency in the 12th Parliament, where he also served as the Leader of the Minority Party. His appointment as Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister in September 2012, a position he held until the 2013 general elections, added to his extensive experience in government operations.
Mbadi’s academic credentials further bolster his qualifications. After attending Lingongo Primary School and Kokuro Boys Secondary School, he joined the University of Nairobi in 1992, graduating in 1996 with a Bachelor of Commerce. In 2007, he earned a Master of Business Administration, enhancing his expertise in financial management.
Professional Experience in Finance
Before entering politics, Mbadi accrued significant experience in finance. From 2004 to 2008, he was the Finance Director at Medair East Africa’s South Sudan Programme. Prior to this, he held various accounting roles at the University of Nairobi, including senior accountant and assistant accountant. This professional background in finance complements his political career, making him well-versed in both the technical and strategic aspects of financial management.
Other Nominees
Mbadi is among five nominees appearing for vetting, including Salim Mvurya (Trade), Rebecca Miano (Tourism), Opiyo Wandayi (Energy), and Kipchumba Murkomen (Sports). Each nominee brings unique skills and experiences to their respective roles, contributing to a comprehensive and capable team.
Conclusion
John Mbadi’s extensive experience in financial oversight, government coordination, and leadership, combined with his strong academic and professional background, make him a prime candidate for the Treasury Cabinet Secretary position. His deep understanding of Kenya’s financial landscape and commitment to public accountability position him as an ideal steward of the nation’s finances. As he undergoes the vetting process, Mbadi’s qualifications and experience stand out, making a compelling case for his appointment.
