President's Cabinet Picks Spark Controversy: Ruto Faces Backlash For Recycling Old Faces

President’s Cabinet Picks Spark Controversy: Ruto Faces Backlash for Recycling Old Faces

Post author:Mujuni Henry
Post published:July 20, 2024
Post category:World
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In a move that has sparked significant public backlash, President William Ruto has announced the first 11 members of his Cabinet.

The decision to recycle several members of his former Cabinet has drawn intense criticism from Generation Z and Millennial protesters, who have been demanding a government of “utmost integrity” and proven track records.

Ruto’s announcement of the Cabinet lineup has been met with immediate online protests under the hashtag “Tupatane Tuesday,” which warned of fresh demonstrations.

Activists and commentators have accused the president of simply “renaming a Cabinet” rather than introducing true reform.

The president has defended his choices, stating that the appointments are meant to enhance his economic turnaround plan and create an inclusive government.

President's Cabinet Picks Spark Controversy: Ruto Faces Backlash for Recycling Old Faces 1

However, his decision to retain six members of his former Cabinet has been widely criticized, with one political analyst questioning the “sense of reinstating sacked officials.”

The situation has been further complicated by Ruto’s push to bring opposition politicians on board, a move that has divided the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya coalition.

While the ODM party has expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of partnering with Kenya Kwanza, other Azimio affiliates have strongly opposed the idea, calling it a “betrayal of the Kenyan people.”

Analysts have noted that Ruto’s actions appear to be driven by a need to maintain political survival, with the protests from Generation Z and Millennial activists posing a significant threat to his administration.

The president’s attempt to strike a balance between his core allies and the demands of the protesters has been met with skepticism, with one university lecturer questioning whether Ruto has truly “listened well” to the concerns raised.

As the debate over the Cabinet picks continues, Ruto faces the challenge of reconciling his promises of reform with the expectations of a younger generation of Kenyans who are demanding a more transparent and accountable government.