Ruto names new Petroleum PS weeks after Liban exit

President William Ruto has reassigned two Principal Secretaries in changes announced on Thursday, according to a statement from the Executive Office of the President.

In a press release issued under “Notification of Presidential Action No. IX of 2026”, the Presidency said the changes were made pursuant to Article 155(4) of the Constitution.

The statement said Kello Harsama had been reassigned from the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development to the State Department for Petroleum.

Harsama replaces Mohamed Liban, who resigned in April 2026 as the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Petroleum.

"Caroline W. Karugu, who serves as Principal Secretary for East African Community (EAC) Affairs, had been designated as Acting Principal Secretary for the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development in addition to her current role," read the statement.

"The reassignments were intended to fill the vacancy arising from the resignation of the immediate former Principal Secretary for the State Department for Petroleum and to ensure continuity in the administration and coordination of Government functions within the affected State Departments."

The statement added that the changes take effect immediately.

The press release was signed by Chief of Staff and the Head of the Public Service, Felix Koskei.

The State Department for ASALs and Regional Development is responsible for improving living conditions and development in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid areas.

It deals with drought management, food security, water projects, livestock support, and regional development programs in marginalised parts of the country.

The department also oversees several regional development authorities and works to strengthen infrastructure, livelihoods, and climate resilience in dry regions.

On the other end, the State Department for Petroleum is responsible for managing Kenya’s oil, gas, and fuel sector.

It develops petroleum policies, oversees oil and gas exploration, regulates fuel supply, manages petroleum licensing, and supports investment in the petroleum industry.

The department also works with agencies such as the Kenya Pipeline Company and the National Oil Corporation to ensure stable fuel supply and development of petroleum infrastructure.