In a bid to address growing political pressure and nationwide discontent, Kenya’s President William Ruto recently dismissed his entire cabinet, retaining only Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. This dramatic move was seen as an attempt to placate the public amid ongoing protests over the high cost of living, tax hikes, and other economic challenges. However, Ruto’s subsequent cabinet nominations have sparked further controversy and criticism, with many viewing them as a superficial change rather than a substantive response to the protesters’ demands.

Among the newly appointed cabinet members, six are familiar faces from Ruto’s previous administration. Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Alice Wahome, Aden Barre Duale, Davis Chirchir, Roselinda Soipan Tuya, and Rebecca Miano have all made a return.

Prof. Kindiki, Duale, and Tuya have retained their previous dockets, while Wahome and Chirchir now come in new ministries, and Miano has been appointed to the position of Attorney General. This recycling and appointment of new cabinet members has led to widespread skepticism about the effectiveness of the reshuffle.

The full list of the new cabinet appointees is as follows:

• Ministry of Interior and National Administration – Prof. Kithure Kindiki
• Ministry of Health – Dr. Debra Mulonga Barasa
• Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development – Alice Wahome
• Ministry of Education – Julius Migosi Ogamba
• Ministry of Defence – Aden Barre Duale
• Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development – Dr. Andrew Mwihia Karanja
• Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry – Roselinda Soipan Tuya
• Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation – Eric Muriithi Muuga
• Ministry of Roads and Transport – Davis Chirchir
• Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy – Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u
• Attorney-General – Rebecca Miano

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Despite President Ruto’s claims that this reshuffle is part of ongoing consultations across the political divide to create a balanced and effective cabinet, many Kenyans remain unconvinced. The return of the six former cabinet secretaries has been particularly contentious, with protesters arguing that it represents a mere reshuffling of the same individuals rather than a genuine effort to address the issues at hand.

Even those who come as new faces have close ties with the president or with the previous cabinet secretaries who held those positions. For example, Kenyans were dissatisfied with former CS Ezekiel Machogu, but now Ruto has replaced him with Julius Migosi Ogamba, who was Machogu’s running mate during the 2022 gubernatorial race in Kisii County. This move is perceived as bringing back the same corrupt individuals to lead behind the scenes.

Similarly, Dr. Andrew Mwihia Karanja, appointed to the agriculture docket, was the former personal assistant to the embattled former CS Mithika Linturi. This appointment is viewed as bringing back Linturi in a different guise. Ruto’s reshuffle, seen as forced by protesters, has done nothing to introduce new, competent leaders as demanded by the public, instead recycling his allies.

The protests, driven primarily by Generation Z activists, have been marked by demands for Ruto’s resignation, the dissolution of parliament and cabinet, and comprehensive reforms to address corruption, economic challenges, and social services. Among their specific demands are the removal of the housing levy, restoration of the Mama Linda program, reduction of the fuel levy, addressing the national debt, and lowering university fees.

The dissatisfaction among the protesters is further fueled by the perception that Ruto’s administration has failed to deliver on its promises to support the economically disadvantaged “hustlers” who form a significant part of his voter base. Since assuming office in August 2022, Ruto has faced mounting criticism for policies perceived as detrimental to the common Kenyan, particularly the tax increases on essential commodities like petrol and housing.

The recent cabinet reshuffle and the subsequent protests highlight the complex and volatile political landscape in Kenya. The rising influence of the Gen-Z generation, leveraging social media and other digital platforms, underscores a significant shift towards more active civic engagement and demands for greater transparency and accountability in governance.

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The Gen-Z Factor in Kenya’s Political Landscape

The protests against President Ruto’s administration are emblematic of a broader generational shift in Kenyan politics. Generation Z, known for their activism and digital savvy, has taken a leading role in mobilizing against perceived injustices and governmental failures. Their demands for transparency, accountability, and social justice reflect a growing frustration with the status quo and a desire for meaningful change.

Generation Z activists have utilized social media platforms to organize protests, share information, and amplify their voices on a global scale. Their efforts have not only brought international attention to local issues but also highlighted the power of grassroots movements in shaping political discourse.

The tragic loss of lives during the June 25 countywide demonstrations has further galvanized the movement. Protesters demand justice for the victims and accountability for the violence perpetrated against peaceful demonstrators. This youth-led movement underscores a significant shift towards more active civic engagement, as young Kenyans increasingly demand a voice in shaping the country’s future.

The Gen-Z generation’s involvement in the protests highlights the need for a more inclusive and transparent approach to governance. Their demands for social justice, economic reforms, and accountability reflect a broader desire for change that cannot be ignored.

For now, the voices of the protesters continue to resonate, calling for a new era of governance that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of all Kenyans.

As the protests continue, the question remains whether President Ruto’s latest moves will be enough to stabilize his administration and address the demands of a rapidly changing society. The return of familiar faces in the cabinet suggests that more profound changes may be necessary to quell the discontent and meet the expectations of the Kenyan people.