Why another Cabinet shake-up looms to fit Ruto-Raila pact

As President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga continue to solidify their unprecedented political pact, sources within the government have revealed that a major cabinet reshuffle is imminent.
The move, according to insiders, is aimed at aligning the executive with the new political realities brought about by the Ruto-Raila agreement, which has sparked both optimism and unease across the political spectrum.
The pact, which was announced in early 2023, has been described as a landmark moment in Kenya’s political history. It brought together two erstwhile rivals, President Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, in a bid to foster national unity and address longstanding political divisions. However, the agreement has also created a delicate balancing act within the government, necessitating a reconfiguration of the cabinet to accommodate the new dynamics.
Speaking to Kurunzi News on condition of anonymity, a senior government official disclosed that the impending reshuffle is not just a routine exercise but a strategic move to ensure the success of the Ruto-Raila pact.
“The President is keen on making this partnership work, and that means bringing in individuals who can bridge the divide and deliver on the promises of unity and development,” the source said.
Another insider, a high-ranking member of the ruling United Democratic Alliance, revealed that several cabinet secretaries and Principal Secretaries are already aware of their impending exit.
“There’s a lot of anxiety in government circles. Some ministers know they are on their way out, but they are waiting for the official announcement,” the source said.
The reshuffle, according to insiders, is expected to target underperforming ministries as well as those deemed critical to the success of the Ruto-Raila pact. Key among these are the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Health, which have faced criticism in recent months over various challenges, including insecurity, teacher shortages, and a struggling healthcare system.
Raila influence in reshuffle
One of the most significant aspects of the impending reshuffle is the expected inclusion of individuals aligned with Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement.
Sources within ODM have confirmed that Raila has submitted a list of names to President Ruto for consideration.
“Raila has made it clear that for this pact to work, there must be a sense of inclusivity in the government. He has recommended individuals who he believes can deliver on the shared vision,” an ODM insider told Kurunzi News.
ODM Leader addressing his supporters during the celebrations of party’s 20 year anniversary in Busia County.
However, this move has not been without controversy. Some members of Ruto’s UDA party have expressed reservations about sharing power with their former rivals.
“There’s a feeling that Raila is being given too much influence in a government that we fought hard to win,” a UDA MP said on condition of anonymity. “But at the same time, we understand the need for compromise if we are to move the country forward.”
Another factor driving the reshuffle is the need to maintain regional balance within the cabinet. The Ruto-Raila pact has heightened expectations among various communities, each hoping to see their interests represented in the government. Insiders say that President Ruto is under pressure to ensure that the new cabinet reflects Kenya’s diversity while also rewarding loyalty.
“The President is walking a tightrope,” a source within the Office of the President revealed. “He has to balance the demands of his base with the need to accommodate Raila’s allies and other stakeholders. It’s a delicate process, but one that is necessary for the stability of the country.”
The news of the impending reshuffle has elicited mixed reactions from the public. While some Kenyans have welcomed the move as a step towards inclusivity and effective governance, others remain skeptical, viewing it as a mere political maneuver.
“I think it’s a good thing if it leads to better service delivery,” said Mary Wambui, a trader in Nairobi. “But we’ve seen these reshuffles before, and sometimes they don’t make much of a difference. What we need is action, not just changes in positions.”
Political analysts, however, argue that the reshuffle could be a game-changer if handled correctly.
“This is an opportunity for President Ruto to demonstrate his commitment to the Ruto-Raila pact and to show that he is willing to make tough decisions for the sake of the country,” said Dr. Samuel Mwangi, a political science lecturer at the University of Nairobi. “But it will require careful planning and execution to avoid alienating key stakeholders.”
As the country awaits the official announcement of the cabinet changes, one thing is clear: the Ruto-Raila pact has set the stage for a new chapter in Kenya’s political landscape. The success of this partnership will depend largely on the ability of both leaders to navigate the complexities of power-sharing and to deliver on their promises of unity and development.
For now, all eyes are on President Ruto as he prepares to unveil a new-look cabinet that reflects the spirit of the pact. Whether this reshuffle will mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation or simply another chapter in Kenya’s turbulent political history remains to be seen.
What is certain, however, is that the stakes are high, and the decisions made in the coming weeks will have far-reaching implications for the future of the nation.