- The US embassy in Kenya expressed solidarity with Kenya on a commitment to democratic values and good governance.
- The embassy emphasised that integrity in leadership is fundamental to the prosperity and stability of the country.
Image: MOSES WETANG'ULA/X
The United States of America has asked the Kenyan government to ensure those vetted for the position of cabinet secretaries have the required qualifications on integrity before they are appointed to office.
In a statement on X on Thursday morning, minutes before the commencement of the vetting exercise, the US embassy in Kenya expressed solidarity with Kenya on a commitment to democratic values and good governance.
The embassy emphasised that integrity in leadership is fundamental to the prosperity and stability of the country.
"As Kenyans look ahead to the vetting of Cabinet nominees beginning Thursday, we recognise the importance of integrity in public service and the National Assembly’s vital role in upholding Chapter Six of Kenya’s Constitution," the embassy said on X.
Chapter 6 of the Constitution emphasises that all state officers must adhere to the highest standards of integrity, competence, and diligence, ensuring accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct in public service
Upholding Chapter Six of Kenya’s Constitution is crucial for fostering a transparent and effective government.
The National Assembly’s role in the vetting process is vital in ensuring that only individuals of the highest ethical standards are entrusted with public office.
Kenyans have reacted to the US Embassy’s statement, expressing concerns that some of the Cabinet nominees have been accused of corruption and lack of integrity.
Many citizens called for a thorough vetting process to ensure that only individuals with unblemished records and a commitment to ethical governance are appointed to these crucial positions.
The 22 nominees set to be vetted beginning Thursday, including 10 from the previous Cabinet, will appear before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments starting today and running till Sunday.
The vetting schedule will see Kithure Kindiki (Interior), Debra Barasa (Health), Alice Wahome (Lands), Julius Ogamba (Education) and Soipan Tuya (Defence) appear on Thursday.
On Friday, the committee will scrutinise Andrew Mwihia (Agriculture), Aden Duale (Environment), Eric Muriithi (Water), Davis Chirchir (Transport) and Magaret Ndung'u (ICT).
Appearing on Saturday will be John mbadi (Treasury), Salim Mvurya (Trade), Rebecca Miano (Tourism) and Kipchumba Murkomen (Sports).
Set to face the committee on Sunday will be Ali Hassan Joho (Mining), Alfred Mutua (Labour), Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives), Justin Muturi (Public Service) and Stella Lang'at (Gender).