ODM Proposes Junet Mohamed as Successor to Kindiki for Interior Cabinet Secretary Position

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has proposed that Junet Mohamed be appointed as the new Interior Cabinet Secretary, according to Nyaribari Masaba Member of Parliament Daniel Manduku. This suggestion comes as Kithure Kindiki is expected to resign from his current position to become the Deputy President of Kenya.

During a panel discussion on K24 on October 25, 2024, Manduku shared that ODM is actively lobbying for more representation in the cabinet.

He confirmed that the party has chosen Junet Mohamed, who is currently the National Assembly Minority Leader and the MP for Suna East. Manduku emphasized, however, that the final decision on the appointment will rest with President William Ruto.

Manduku explained that there are ongoing discussions within the party to increase their influence in the government, especially after the National Assembly approved Kindiki’s nomination for the Deputy President position. He stated, "Yes, we have fronted a name, Junet Mohamed. We have just fronted the name, but it is up to the president to decide."

Reports suggest that Kindiki may have already submitted his resignation letter to President Ruto following his recent approval by the National Assembly. On October 18, 2024, 236 members of the National Assembly voted in favor of Kindiki's appointment as Deputy President, a significant majority with no votes against him.

Manduku indicated that since Kindiki's resignation is a private matter, it may not be publicly announced. He remarked, "The position is vacant; resignation is a private affair. He probably wrote a resignation to the president. The resignation doesn't have to be made public."

If Junet Mohamed is appointed as the Interior Cabinet Secretary, he would join a group of other ODM members already serving in President Ruto's cabinet. Notable figures from ODM include Hassan Joho as the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Opiyo Wandayi for Energy, John Mbadi for Treasury, and Wycliffe Oparanya for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development. This reflects the party's growing influence in the current administration.

The move to nominate Junet is part of ODM's strategy to strengthen its position within the government. The party has expressed a desire to play a more significant role in shaping government policies and initiatives. Junet Mohamed's potential appointment is seen as a critical step in this direction, aligning with ODM's goal of fostering cooperation with the ruling party.

Junet Mohamed has been an active voice in the National Assembly, advocating for various issues that affect Kenyans. His experience and leadership within ODM make him a suitable candidate for the Interior Ministry, which oversees crucial aspects of national security and public safety.