Remain loyal to Ruto as you serve Kenyans - Gachagua to Cabinet

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged the newly appointed Cabinet to remain loyal to President William Ruto even as it remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of Kenyans.

Speaking on Tuesday during the two-day Cabinet induction, Gachagua said these are among the three key pillars that anchor the Kenya Kwanza plan.

The first, he said, is to maintain fidelity to the Constitution and the rule of law in that they exercise the power given to them in strict conformity with the law.

They should also use the power for the enduring benefit of the people.

"Secondly, we must remain responsive to the needs and aspirations of the citizens we serve. Their trust and confidence in the government depends on our ability to deliver," he said.

The DP said the CSs must be open and accessible leaders who listen, learn and lead not just by words, but by example.

Gachagua urged them not to lock themselves up in their offices, telling them to move around and find out what is really going on in the country.

He advised them to have an open-door policy that encourages full and frank input from those who serve under the.

The Deputy President also told the CSs to encourage diverse opinions and welcome different ideas.

"Great leaders forge great teams, and your ability to deliver will be defined by how well you craft a vibrant and cohesive team," he said.

Additionally, they were told to interact with ordinary Kenyans from all walks of life.

"The feedback you can receive from the watchman, farmer, or Uber driver can be a million times better than reports and briefings of officials – because it is honest, unfiltered, and based on lived experience and not just observation," Gachagua said.

The third pillar, he said, is that the Cabinet should demonstrate unwavering loyalty to President Ruto, as it carries out its duties and responsibilities.

"Loyalty to the Head of State and Government is not negotiable. You are now soldiers in an army that has only one General," he said.

"You are now also bound by collective responsibility, and no matter your personal views on a matter, once it is directed by the President or resolved in Cabinet, your duty is to jealousy, fiercely, and firmly defend it.

Gachagua told the CSs to ensure that their words carry the same weight, consideration and gravitas as their Cabinet memoranda, or official communication.

He said loyalty also means faithful, honest and truthful counsel to the President.

"Offer honest counsel and advice, even to the plans and activities that appear already set in stone. But when the President reflects on your counsel and offers guidance on a different route, take it up as such without turning back," Gachagua said.