Kenyan President Ruto Names Ministers from Main Opposition Party in Bid to Form Broad-Based Government

In a surprise move, Kenyan President William Ruto has nominated four ministers from the main opposition party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), in a bid to form a broad-based government. The nominees include Hassan Joho, who will take on the role of Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Wycliffe Oparanya, designated as Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives, John Mbadi at the National Treasury ministry, and Opiyo Wandayi at Energy.

This announcement comes despite a warning from ODM leader Raila Odinga. The four politicians are part of a batch of 10 nominees, all close allies of the Orange Democratic Movement leader. However, their appointments still need to be approved by Parliament.

This development marks a significant shift in Kenya’s political landscape, following weeks of turmoil that have led to dozens of deaths, the firing of most Cabinet members, and calls for Ruto’s resignation. The protests began with Kenyans rejecting a proposed bill to impose more taxes, amid rising prices and economic challenges. Ruto’s decision to include opposition figures in his government may be an attempt to placate the opposition and restore stability in the country.

In his first batch of appointments last week, Ruto retained six former Cabinet ministers. However, his latest move has sparked controversy on social media, with some protesters accusing the opposition of treason and alleging a secret deal was brokered. The fate of the nominees remains uncertain, pending approval by Parliament.

The weeks of unrest in Kenya’s economic hub have highlighted the country’s deep-seated political and economic challenges. As Ruto’s government navigates these challenges, his decision to include opposition figures may be a crucial step towards stabilizing the country and addressing the concerns of its citizens.