• The window has closed for CAS applications.
• Allies still have hopes in corporations and state jobs.
Image: WILLIAM RUTO
At least 10 allies of President William Ruto did not make it to the list of Principal Secretaries unveiled on Wednesday despite applying for the jobs.
Politicians, mostly 2022 election losers, now have their chance of serving in the Kenya Kwanza government, which is shrinking by the day with the new administration almost getting complete.
Some of those who applied but missed out include former nominated MPs Isaac Mwaura, David Sankok, former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal, former Kinangop MP Benjamin Tayari and former Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi.
Others are former Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa, former Narok Governor Samuel Tunai, former Wajir West MP Ahmed Kolosh, former Kisauni MP Ali Mbogo, former Ainamoi MP Silvanus Maritim and former Isiolo Woman Representative Rehema Jaldesa.
The leaders had expressed interest to serve in President Ruto’s administration as principal accountants in various ministries.
But as the list was being released on Wednesday, none of them made it to the list of the 51 slots.
With the window closed for CAS applications, pundits argue that there is still hope for those left out as they stand a chance of landing either state corporations or ambassadorial jobs.
Political commentator Javas Bigambo said Ruto has been faithful in rewarding loyalists, especially those who went out of the way during the campaigns.
“In the selection or determination of who to serve as PS even among those Ruto settled on yesterday, it is very clear that while he picked some who were politicians before, he seems to have gone for fairly younger blood, more agile and energetic who can inject some energy in his government and implementation in his manifesto,” Bigambo said on the phone.
The governance expert however opined that there is no love lost between the head of state and the politicians who were never considered for the PSs nominees.
“When you look at it keenly, you may want to appreciate that those who played sacrificial roles, especially those who went outside their political turfs, have been heavily rewarded,” Bigambo told the Star on the phone.
“There are those who campaigned for William Ruto but they did so within their counties and constituencies or in areas that were not particularly volatile."
Political analyst Danstan Omari told the Star that it is time for serious introspection, especially for those who were left out, explaining their omission could mean they are unwelcome in the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“In terms of defining who is an ally, it is only William Ruto who knows who his allies are. There are those of a perception that they are allies of Ruto but the reality is that Ruto’s thermometer is what determines loyalty,” Omari said.
“People who have missed out means they are suspects in Ruto camp and that is why they have not been given anything, people who are loyal have landed position. The message is loud and clear, you guys I don’t trust you. The people I have trusted I have given them PSs.”