Politician Chebichi Lelei was among the 50 Chief Administrative Secretaries (CAS) appointed by President William Ruto on Thursday, March 16.
Chebichi, who vied for the Uasin Gishu Women Representative Seat in the August 2017 and 2022 General Election, was elated when her name was first floated for the position by the head of state.
"I am grateful to God for the nomination as the Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) for the Ministry of East African Community (EAC), The ASALS, and regional development.
"Thank you to His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto for the opportunity to serve Kenyans," she stated on Friday, March 17.
Chebichi was appointed alongside Mwanamaka Amani Mabruki in the same department and the two were sworn in on Thursday, March 23, in an event attended by the Head of State.
Few, however, know her story. The CAS nominee survived two life-threatening incidents during the campaign season, including a car crash and a break-in at her house.
While heading out for campaigns in August 2017 in Kesses, her car was hit from behind by people she claimed had been trailing her convoy.
According to the driver, a car followed Chebichi's car even when they detoured the petrol station before rejoining the highway.
Additionally, in December 2021, her house and car were vandalised by unknown culprits. Allegedly, the attacks on the politician were politically motivated.
The incident was frowned upon by her supporters, who questioned the unnecessary destruction of her property. Many urged the authorities to act promptly and apprehend the culprit.
"What happened yesterday on vehicles vandalism should be highly condemned," one resident stated.
Meanwhile, as a CAS, she will be tasked with liaising between ministries and parliament as well as the county governments.
She will also be answerable for duties the President and Cabinet Secretaries assign to the portfolio after Parliament approves her nomination.
