President William Ruto unveiled 11 names for his new government during a national address on Friday, July 19. These appointments come eight days after he dismissed his ministers in response to massive youth protests demanding his resignation. However, the youth have expressed disappointment with these new appointments, as Ruto has reappointed six ministers from his previous administration.
“William Ruto is a fraud… we’ll settle this in the streets,” wrote Hanifa, a blogger active in the Gen Z movement, on the social platform X. For over a month, Ruto has been under street pressure, with the youth calling for his departure due to perceived failures, particularly in combating corruption.
The disappointment was palpable on Kenyan social media on Friday. More than half of the new government comprises members of the previous administration. Notably, two ministers have retained significant portfolios: Aden Duale at Defense and Kithure Kindiki at Interior.
The five new appointees, who were supposed to symbolize a fresh start, are largely unknown figures.
“By dismissing his entire government, William Ruto gave the impression that his ministers were part of the corruption problem. Reappointing them is provocative,” commented Ruth Ambogo, a governance issues lawyer.
Ruto has promised additional appointments in the coming days, possibly as a strategy to negotiate the opposition’s entry into the government. However, the Azimio coalition is divided on this issue. On Friday, one of its leaders, Kalonzo Musyoka, announced his refusal to participate in the process, stating, “We will not compromise on fundamental principles.”
The reappointment of former ministers has not only frustrated the youth but also intensified the ongoing protests. The youth’s persistent demonstrations underscore their disillusionment with the current administration’s efforts to address corruption and other critical issues.
The new government appointments are likely to further strain the relationship between President Ruto and the younger population, who feel their demands for significant change are being ignored. As Ruto navigates this turbulent period, his ability to address the concerns of the youth and restore confidence in his leadership will be crucial.
With the promise of more appointments on the horizon, the coming days will be critical in shaping Kenya’s political landscape. The government’s response to the youth’s grievances and its commitment to tackling corruption will be under intense scrutiny, both domestically and internationally.