The National Assembly has dismissed as misleading a memo sent to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) requesting for vetting of new Cabinet Secretary nominees.
In the memo, purportedly signed by the clerk of the House and addressed to the commission’s CEO, five former individuals including three ex-CSs who served in the last government have been listed.
“In accordance with the provisions of chapter six of the constitution, your commission is requested to conduct a thorough background check on the nominees to assess their compliance with the ethical and legal requirements for holding public office,” it reads.
It is dated December 10.
The fake memo emerged barely a day after President William Ruto met retired President Uhuru Kenyatta at his Gatundu residence.
This meeting has fueled speculations of a political deal to include some of Uhuru’s allies in Ruto's Cabinet, as part of a broader political arrangement.
However, in a statement on December 9, State House said the two leaders discussed matters of national and regional importance and underscored the importance of cultivating a nationalistic, patriotic, and harmonious working relationship among all Kenyans and stakeholders.
"President Ruto took the opportunity to reiterate his appreciation and commendation of His Excellency President Kenyatta’s statesmanship in overseeing the peaceful transfer of power after the 2022 elections, as well as the goodwill the former President has continued to demonstrate toward his fellow leaders and his support for Kenya’s ongoing progress and development," the statement read in part.
Speaking Tuesday in Wajir, Ruto stressed the importance of political leaders working together.
He explained that as leaders they must continually build bridges instead of creating barriers underlining that the collective strength of all stakeholders is key to addressing the country’s challenges.
According to the head of state, it is for this reason that he is now working with Raila Odinga and retired president Uhuru Kenyatta.
“We want to fashion a country that all of us believe in, a country that we can all have a stake in and participate in it in realising our full potential,” he stated.
He expressed that the country’s future lies in inclusivity, where every citizen plays a role in shaping its path.