Is there fresh plan to appoint Kagwe back to Cabinet?

As President William Ruto prepares for a potential mini-reshuffle of his Cabinet, speculation is rife regarding the possible appointment of former Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe.

Reports indicate that the President aims to fill two vacant positions within his government in the coming days, with Kagwe’s name emerging as a strong contender to replace the recently elevated Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki.

Kindiki became DP following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua. Kagwe has been mentioned as a candidate for this role, as well as for the DP’s position prior to Kindiki’s appointment.

State House has reportedly been proactive in its outreach, sending emissaries to engage with Kagwe and leaders from former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s faction within the Jubilee party.

These discussions appear to centre on facilitating Kagwe’s collaboration with Ruto’s administration, indicating a potential alignment between the two political figures.

In Nyeri, local leaders, including respected elders, are convening today to deliberate on this development and chart a course for the region’s political future.

“We have called a meeting in Nyeri on Friday to discuss this issue and the future of the region. We want to be in government,” Thuo Mathenge, a long-time Nyeri politician, saidi.

This sentiment reflects a broader desire among Nyeri leaders to ensure their region is well represented in the national government.

Kagwe’s track record as Health minister, particularly during the tumultuous Covid-19 pandemic, has bolstered his reputation as a capable leader.

His management of the health crisis garnered both national and international recognition, positioning him as a prominent figure in Kenyan politics.

Additionally, during President Mwai Kibaki’s administration, Kagwe played a crucial role in liberalising the communication sector further enhancing his credentials for a potential return to Cabinet.

The discussions surrounding his potential appointment highlight the intricate dynamics of Kenya’s political landscape, particularly as Ruto seeks to solidify his administration’s support and enhance its effectiveness.

Appointing Kagwe would not only bring an experienced politician into the fold, but could also help bridge gaps between different political factions, particularly in the wake of recent upheavals within the government.

The desire for representation and participation in government is palpable among local leaders, who recognise the importance of having a voice in the national dialogue.

With the imminent reshuffle on the horizon, all eyes will be on President Ruto’s decisions.

Kagwe’s reappointment to the Cabinet could signal a strategic move to enhance governance and foster collaboration among various political factions, setting the stage for a more unified approach to addressing the pressing challenges facing the nation.