Former Kisii Governor James Ongwae has hailed as a historic moment President William Ruto’s key diplomatic appointments to some members of the Gusii community.
Ongwae who served for two terms as Kisii governor, said President Ruto’s nominations of the Gusii leaders to represent the country in foreign missions demonstrate his faith in the community.
“As a community, we are indebted to Kenya Kwanza government and are appreciative and we will continue working with the President by supporting his Kenya Kwanza government agenda,” Ongwae said in a statement on Saturday.
“Congratulations to all my brothers and sisters who were appointed to serve in various ambassadorial positions, heads of mission and Consular positions.”
He said that the additional appointments go a long way in supporting the vibrancy and visibility of Omogusii across the globe.
“Go ye and work for our beloved country,” Ongwae added.
President Ruto on Friday picked Ongwae’s former deputy Joash Maangi to serve as Kenya’s ambassador to Kampala, Uganda.
Maangi had initially been slotted as Chief Administrative Secretary Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs before the positions were declared unconstitutional by the court.
The President also picked former West Mugirango MP Vincent Kemosi to serve as Kenya's ambassador to Accra, Ghana.
Kemosi who served as MP on the Ford Kenya ticket was initially named as the CAS ministry Trade.
The president also promoted Beatrice Nyaboke Ombachi to ambassador and named her the Foreign Affairs' director for Americas and Caribbean.
Ruto also promoted Jane Makori and named her deputy director in charge of Asia and the Pacific.
The latest appointment add to a number of nominations done by President Ruto to leaders from the Gusii community since he was sworn in as president.
Ongwae is among the region’s heavyweights who is serving as chair of the influential Communication Authority’s Universal Service Fund Advisory Council.
Other Gusii leaders serving in state agencies under President Ruto's administration include Migosi Ogamba who is the Kengen Board chair and Walter Nyambati who serves as the GDC board chairperson.
Okeng'o Nyambane also serves as a director at the Communications Authority.
Despite the Gusii community supporting Azimio leader Raila Odinga in the 2022 presidential elections, Ruto has made deliberate appointments targeting key leaders from the region.