President Ruto names new PSs as government reshuffle takes shape

President William Ruto has nominated 14 individuals to serve as Principal Secretaries in various state departments.

The appointments, announced by Chief of Staff Felix Koskei, follow recommendations from the Public Service Commission (PSC) and are expected to bring fresh leadership to key ministries.

Among those nominated is former Nyeri Deputy Governor Caroline Wanjiru Karugu, who will head the State Department for East African Community Affairs.

Dr. Fredrick Ouma Oluga, a former Chief Officer of Health in Nairobi Metropolitan Services, has been appointed to lead the State Department for Medical Services.

Regina Akoth Ombam will oversee the State Department for Trade, while Cyrell Wagunda Odede will take charge of Public Investments and Asset Management.

Other nominees include Ahmed Abdisalan Ibrahim for National Government Coordination, Judith Naiyai Pareno for Justice, Human Rights, and Constitutional Affairs, and Bonface Makokha for Economic Planning.

Prof. Abdulrazak Shaukat has been selected for Science, Research, and Innovation, while Stephen Isaboke will head Broadcasting and Telecommunications.

Michael Lenasalon has been nominated to the Office of the Deputy President under the State Department for Devolution.

Fikirini Katoi Kahindi Jacobs will also serve in the Devolution docket. CPA Carren Ageng’o Achieng has been named for Youth Affairs, and Aden Abdi Millah will lead Shipping and Maritime Affairs.

The nominations follow PSC interviews conducted in January, where 109 candidates were shortlisted.

The final list was reportedly submitted to the President last month.

The anticipated reshuffle had sparked speculation about possible political realignments, with some expecting positions to be filled by allies of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following Kenya Kwanza’s working agreement with Raila Odinga.

The Principal Secretaries will be responsible for implementing government policies, managing resources, and overseeing intergovernmental projects.

Their names have been forwarded to Parliament for vetting before formal appointment.

“The President has transmitted the nominations for appointment to the ranks of Principal Secretaries, and the applicable Foreign Service postings to the National Assembly for consideration and approval in fulfillment of the legal requirements set out under our nation's apex law,” Koskei said.