Muturi, a former Attorney General, was replaced by Geoffrey Ruku, the Member of Parliament for Mbeere North. Meanwhile, Hanna Wendot was nominated to head the Ministry of Gender and Culture.
The shake-up also saw Aden Duale, previously in charge of Environment, transferred to the Health Ministry, while Deborah Barasa, the former Health CS, took over the Environment docket.
Muturi’s Firing Linked to Delays in Waqf Implementation
Muturi’s dismissal comes just a day after President Ruto publicly criticized his performance, particularly his failure to expedite the establishment of Waqf, a Muslim charitable endowment.
Speaking during an Iftar session at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, March 25, Ruto did not mince words, stating:
“On Waqf, I agree with you; it has taken too long. There is no reason for the delay, and I had a problem with the AG who was there. He was fairly incompetent.”
Muturi had previously denied speculation that he was planning to resign, insisting that he was focused on ensuring government accountability. However, his removal after only eight months in office signals Ruto’s intent to crack down on underperformance in his administration.
New Nominees Await Parliamentary Approval
Following the changes, Geoffrey Ruku and Hanna Wendot will undergo parliamentary scrutiny before their appointments are finalized. According to State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed, the reshuffle aims to enhance the Cabinet’s efficiency in driving Kenya’s socioeconomic transformation.
Muturi’s abrupt exit marks a significant shift in Ruto’s leadership approach, reinforcing his commitment to a results-driven government.