The National Assembly has scheduled approval hearings for 14 nominees to the position of Principal Secretary (PS), calling on Kenyans to submit objections ahead of the vetting process.
The hearings, set to begin on 4 April, follow President William Ruto’s latest reshuffle of Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) and their deputies, marking a realignment of key government departments.
Among the first to face scrutiny are Fikirini Katoi Kahindi Jacobs, nominated for the State Department for Youth Affairs, and Dr Oluga Fredrick Ouma, picked for the State Department for Medical Services.
Jacobs is expected before the Departmental Committee on Social Protection at noon, while Dr Ouma will be vetted by the Health Committee at 10 am.
The nominees are required to present original academic certificates, clearance from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, Kenya Revenue Authority, and a credit reference bureau. The Clerk of the National Assembly, Samuel Njoroge, has invited the public to submit affidavits contesting any nominee’s suitability, with a timeline of April 3 at 5 pm.
Ruto’s reshuffle has seen notable changes, including the reorganisation of the Shipping & Maritime Affairs department under the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs.
The State Department for Devolution was moved to the Office of the Deputy President, aligning it with intergovernmental coordination.
Ahmed Abdisalan Ibrahim, nominated for National Government Coordination, will be among the early candidates appearing before Parliament. His role, reporting to the Prime Cabinet Secretary, is critical in overseeing intergovernmental relations.
Dr Caroline Wanjiru Karugu, who previously served as Deputy Governor of Nyeri, is set for vetting on 4 April for the East African Community Affairs docket. She replaces Kevit Desai, who held the position under the first phase of Ruto’s administration.
Another high-profile nominee, Prof Abdulrazak Shaukat, will face questioning for the State Department for Science, Research, and Innovation.
On the economic front, Dr Bonface Makokha and Cyrell Odede Waguanda will be vetted for the Economic Planning and Public Investments dockets, respectively, under the National Treasury. Their appointments come amid concerns over fiscal management and government spending.
Judith Nyaiyai Pareno, a former senator and long-time ODM party official, will be vetted on 7 April for the Justice, Human Rights, and Constitutional Affairs docket. She replaces Mary Muthoni, who was shifted in the reshuffle.
Regina Akoth Ombam, nominated for Trade, is expected to bring private-sector experience to the ministry. If approved, she will focus on boosting exports and industrial competitiveness.
The hearings will take place at multiple venues, including Bunge Tower and the Main Parliament Buildings, with final approval votes expected by mid-April.
The Clerk has emphasised strict adherence to constitutional timelines.
