The Transitional Governance Initiative of Kenya has reiterated the need for unity, peace, and effective governance despite ongoing protests against the government. 

President William Ruto has submitted a list of his new cabinet members to the National Assembly for vetting.

Established in 2008, the consortium of civil played a pivotal role in restoring confidence and capacity to address instability, political marginalization, and violence in the nation.

Ambassador Esther Waringa, the Founder and President of Public Service Governance and the recipient of United Nations Distinguished African Woman Leadership Award for promoting Good Governance in Africa and around the World, told the media that transparency, integrity, and responsible leadership are critically important in steering Kenya towards prosperity.

PSG describes itself as an institution that is working towards good, Accountable, responsible, peaceful and divine governance in the Republic
of Kenya.

Calls for National Unity Amid Governance Challenges

Addressing the Journalists at the press conference, Ambassador Waringa emphasized the need for collaboration and national cohesion during this crucial juncture in Kenya’s history. The Shadow Cabinet highlighted accountability, transparency, and the rule of law as fundamental principles for the nation’s well-being.

“We are called to reason together on matters of utmost importance – good governance, accountability, responsibility, transparency, and the rule of law,” remarked Ambassador Waringa during her address.

She stressed the constitutional right and duty of citizens to hold leaders accountable, urging both the government and the populace to engage in constructive dialogue for the betterment of Kenya.

Mrs. expressed solidarity with Kenya’s youth, recognizing their calls for strategic and objective actions towards achieving good governance.

They emphasized the need for all stakeholders to promote peace, national cohesion, and integration, while condemning all forms of violence and advocating for peaceful dialogue.

Furthermore, the Shadow Cabinet proposed significant reforms, including the institutionalization of cabinet appointments based on merit rather than political affiliation.

They called on professionals across various sectors to submit applications to the Public Service Commission, aiming to enhance service delivery and governance effectiveness.

Kenya’s police fires tear gas at protesters in Nairobi

In Nairobi, Kenya, police used tear gas to stop clashes between protesters and government supporters on Tuesday.

The youth-led demonstrations, ongoing for six weeks, originally protested tax increases and escalated to the storming of parliament. Despite

President William Ruto abandoning the $2.7 billion finance bill in June, protests against alleged corruption and misgovernance persist.

For the first time since protests began on June 18, a group of government supporters, predominantly on motorcycles, marched through downtown Nairobi.

They blew whistles and plastic horns while carrying placards that read “We support the president” and “Enough is enough.”

Kenya Police Service stated that the protests, which have resulted in at least 50 deaths, have been infiltrated by criminal gangs.

Kenya’s Transition to Merit-Based Governance

Ambassador Esther Waringa has emphasized the critical need for Kenya’s public service agencies to maintain seamless service delivery amidst potential political system dysfunctionality. She urged swift action to prevent any governance gaps that could compromise national well-being.

Waringa proposed a significant reform in governance, advocating for a shift towards meritocracy over political patronage. She suggested that all qualified professionals submit applications to the Public Service Commission for ministerial positions, ensuring appointments are based on competence rather than political connections.

The Ambassador highlighted the establishment of the Kenya Transitional Governance Initiative to oversee this transition. Its role is to safeguard public service agencies from political interference, promoting independent and effective governance.

Mrs. Waringa expressed optimism about Kenya’s future, urging unity and dedication to national values in building a just, inclusive, and prosperous nation. 

Cabinet Nominees Await National Assembly Vetting Process

President William Ruto ignited fresh debate following a surprising swap of nominees in his Cabinet, as outlined in a memorandum sent to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula.

The unexpected changes saw Defence nominee Aden Duale exchanged with Environment nominee Soipan Tuya, diverging from the initial announcement made on Friday, July 19.

Dr.  Ruto’s transmittal did not include his nominee for Attorney General, Rebecca Miano, who previously served as Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary before Ruto’s dissolution of his Cabinet.

In the memorandum, President Ruto forwarded a list of ten names, which contradicts the eleven names initially disclosed as part of a partial Cabinet list.

“The committee to which such nominations is referred shall consider the matter and table a report in the House within 28 days. It is, therefore, imperative that the committee commences the process of the consideration of the nominees,” Speaker Wetangula said.

The Committee on Appointments is expected to promptly inform the nominees and the public, initiate necessary approval hearings, and present its report to the House for deliberation.

Committee to Table Report on Each Nominee for Approval or Rejection

The ten Cabinet nominees are currently awaiting vetting by the National Assembly, marking a critical step in their appointment process.

Following the vetting process, the Committee responsible will table a comprehensive report on each nominee, recommending either approval or rejection by the House.

Upon appointment, each Cabinet Secretary will assume office after taking an oath or making an affirmation of allegiance to the people and the Republic of Kenya. This solemn pledge includes a commitment to uphold the Constitution, as detailed in the Third Schedule.

This procedure underscores the importance of parliamentary oversight and adherence to constitutional principles in ensuring the integrity and capability of Kenya’s executive leadership.

Kenya’s Path to Unified Governance

The organization announced plans to convene a multi-agency summit on good governance, inviting public service agencies to collaborate on improving service delivery without political interference.

It reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the government’s responsiveness to citizen demands and maintaining continuity in public service delivery amid potential political uncertainties.

Ambassador Waringa reiterated a message of unity and collaboration: “Together, we can build a Kenya that is just, inclusive, and prosperous for all its citizens. Let us embark on this journey together, with unity, resolve, and a commitment to the values that define us as a nation.”

The Transitional Governance Initiative of Kenya remains proactive in its stance for a unified nation amidst current governance challenges, paving the way for constructive dialogue and effective governance since its inception following the 2007-2008 political crisis.

With the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and in alignment with key U.S. Government policy goals, they have helped foster a stable Kenyan polity that encourages citizen participation based on national identity and political party platforms rather than ethnic affiliations.

To achieve this objective, it has enabled facilitation and collaboration efforts among Kenyan state and non-state entities, enhancing their capacities to effectively operate.

One major focus has been empowering public institutions to initiate crucial reforms and navigate periods of instability and unpredictability.

Through enhancing their capabilities, these institutions are better equipped to tackle challenges and advocate for sustainable governance practices.

Moreover, they implemented programs aimed at mobilizing the public, especially the youth and influential change agents, to advocate for accountability and necessary reforms.

This approach aims to encourage an active and proactive citizenry, fostering momentum towards increased transparency and responsiveness in Kenya’s political landscape.