Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua addressed Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries. The leader emphasized their crucial role in securing a second term for President Ruto.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua
Gachagua addressed these officials during the performance contract signing event at State House. He stressed the President’s determination to have his contract renewed by the people of Kenya. Of course, based on his performance contract with the electorate.
Gachagua urged the cabinet officials to work diligently and without fail. Pointing out that their performance directly impacts President Ruto’s ability to deliver on his promises to the nation.
Rigathi emphasized that the President’s friendship with his team is purely based on their performance. Rather than campaigning for him, the officials should show utmost dedication to their responsibilities.
“The President’s intention is to have his contract renewed by the people of Kenya so those under him must work hard. He also has a performance contract with Kenyans and your work helps him deliver according to it. Your friendship with him is purely based on performance, not campaigning for him.”
Rigathi Gachagua
The Deputy President also addressed the recent directive by President Ruto to cap foreign travel by members of the Executive. Gachagua spoke on the need for self-regulation among government officials. Thus, he questioned the necessity of honoring every invitation from abroad.
“Why do you have to honor every invitation to every country? We have had to reschedule meetings because some officials are out of the country. Some even change clothes at the airports.”
Rigathi Gachagua
He suggested prioritizing events that have a bearing on policy. In addition to that, he emphasized that the President should not have to micromanage officials’ travel schedules.
“Decide what is useful and leave the rest to ambassadors, the president should not be the one regulating you. If it’s travelling, travel to Kenyans to listen to their needs, that one the President will not curb you.”
Rigathi Gachagua
Furthermore, Gachagua criticized government officials for not engaging in media interviews. He said that explaining their actions and plans to the Kenyan public, gives the media room for speculation.
According to Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, limiting travel for officials, is part of President Ruto’s plans. Felix, who is also Chief of Staff, said that these plans will enforce transparency in the government.
The signing of performance contracts for CSs, PSs, heads of parastatals, and agencies aims to set clear targets for officials during their tenure.
However, the absence of two CSs, Kithure Kindiki and Moses Kuria, at the performance contract signing event sparked criticism. President William Ruto demanded a written explanation from the respective Interior Ministry and Trade CSs. He reminding officials of their contractual obligations to keep time and fulfill their duties.
“We have a job because we have a contract, if you cannot keep time with your employer, you have basically dismissed yourself, it is just as simple as that.”
William Ruto
President Ruto’s commitment to transparent governance also includes his proposal to amend Standing Orders. Thus enabling ministers to be summoned to Parliament and questioned on their performance in the House.
