Duale appointed to Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry was a shock to many. This is among the changes to the proposed Cabinet list, which the President submitted to the National Assembly for approval. Previously, President Ruto had named Mr. Duale to Defence and Ms. Tuya to Environment during his initial Cabinet appointments.
Military preferences
Sources suggest that the move was brought by internal dynamics within the Ministry of Defence. There, military leaders also reportedly found Mr. Duale’s assertive nature challenging. They claim to prefer a more reserved minister. When asked if his personality was the reason for the change, Mr. Duale denied it without further explanation. Historically, those in the Defence Ministry have been political figures who stayed out of the ministry’s internal workings. Mr. Duale’s vocal and assertive style may have been unsettling to insiders.
Moses Wetangula passed the President’s message and the nominees’ CVs to the appointments Committee. Minority leader Junet Mohamed emphasizes that the vetting of nominees would be tight, ensuring only capable candidates are upon approval. Tiaty MP William Kamket acknowledged the high standards expected for Cabinet Secretary appointments but noted that perfect candidates are unrealistic.
Mr. Duale appeared to accept the change positively, expressing gratitude to the President and eagerness to serve in his new role on social media. He will now undergo vetting by the Appointments Committee, chaired by Mr. Wetang’ula, which has 28 days to evaluate the nominees and report to Parliament. This vetting occurs amidst public dissatisfaction with MPs who supported the Finance Bill, 2024, providing lawmakers a chance to restore their credibility.
Article 118 of the Constitution mandates Parliament to facilitate public participation in its processes. Additionally, Section 6 (4) of the Act requires public notification of confirmation hearings at least seven days in advance. Reappointed Cabinet members will also face scrutiny regarding their previous tenures. READ MORE: President Ruto Nominates 11 Cabinet Secretaries; Chirchir, Duale and Kindiki Return
