Source: Twitter
On July 11, 2024, President William Ruto took the dramatic step of dissolving his entire Cabinet. This decision came after mounting pressure from widespread anti-government protests led by the country's younger generation, often referred to as Gen Z.
The protests, which have been a significant force in Kenya’s current political climate, highlighted the public’s dissatisfaction with the government's performance and transparency.
President Ruto’s decision affected 20 Cabinet Secretaries (CSs), including Attorney General (AG) Justin Muturi. The only high-ranking officials spared from this sweeping action were Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.
In a public statement, Ruto explained his actions were influenced by a combination of public opinion and a thorough review of his Cabinet’s performance over the past 18 months.
"Upon reflection, listening keenly to what the people of Kenya have said and after a holistic appraisal of the performance of my Cabinet and its achievements and challenges, I have decided to dismiss with immediate effect all the Cabinet Secretaries and the Attorney-General," Ruto stated, citing his constitutional powers under Article 152(1) and 152(5)(b) and Section 12 of the Office of the Attorney-General Act.
While the political ramifications of this move are significant, there are also substantial financial implications.
According to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), each dismissed CS and the AG is entitled to a gratuity payment.This gratuity is calculated at 31% of their basic monthly salary, which stands at KSh 574,200. Over their 18 months of service, this results in a substantial payout.
The total amount each sacked official will receive in gratuity payments is estimated to be around KSh 1.49 million for their second year of service, ending June 30, 2024.
Additionally, they are expected to receive KSh 962,438 for the first year of service, ending June 30, 2023, after tax deductions.
Collectively, the gratuity payments amount to KSh 54 million, which will be a considerable expenditure for the Kenyan government during a time of fiscal constraints.
The dissolution of the Cabinet has elicited varied reactions from the public and political analysts.
Some see it as a necessary step to address the grievances of the youth and improve government efficiency, while others view it as a politically motivated move to regain public trust amid growing unrest.
Earlier this year, President Ruto directed the National Treasury to review salary increments for state officers, highlighting the need for fiscal prudence following the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024.
The President has repeatedly urged Kenyans to live within their means, stressing that the government must set an example by managing its finances responsibly.
The immediate future of Kenya’s government remains uncertain as the country awaits the announcement of a new Cabinet.
The appointment of new CSs will be crucial for the administration to restore public confidence and address the demands of the protesters.
It is expected that President Ruto will prioritize individuals with a proven track record of public service and the ability to drive the country's economic recovery.
Political analysts suggest that the new Cabinet should focus on key areas such as job creation, economic stabilization, and addressing corruption.
The youth-driven protests have underscored the urgent need for policies that provide better opportunities and improve living standards for the younger population, who feel marginalized and disillusioned with the current system.
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