Kenyan President William Ruto has announced the dissolution of the cabinet and the dismissal of all cabinet members except the Prime Minister, who also serves as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Ruto stated in a press conference, “I have decided to dismiss all ministers except the Prime Minister (who is also the Foreign Affairs Minister) with immediate effect.” While all cabinet members were relieved of their duties, it was emphasized that Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi would continue in his position. Ruto mentioned that until a new cabinet is appointed, the Prime Minister would coordinate matters related to ministries and a new cabinet would be formed within the legal framework as soon as possible.
Last month in Kenya, at least 30 people lost their lives following the police intervention in anti-government demonstrations. This move to dismiss most of the cabinet members comes in the wake of the violent protests in the country. President Ruto’s decision to overhaul the cabinet is seen as a response to the recent unrest and a step towards addressing the demands and concerns raised by the public during the demonstrations.
During this transitional period until a new cabinet is put in place, the coordination of ministerial affairs by the Prime Minister highlights a temporary measure to ensure continuity in governance. The swift formation of a new cabinet within the constitutional framework signals the government’s commitment to restoring stability and addressing the challenges facing the country. As Kenya prepares for the establishment of a new cabinet, the focus remains on promoting peace, stability, and addressing the grievances of the people to prevent further unrest in the nation.