Ruto speaks out on Matiangi job says changes will increase efficiency

DP William Ruto with his wife Rachel and other leaders join a song during a church service at AIC Pipeline in Nairobi. [File, DPPS]

Deputy President William Ruto has downplayed concerns elevation of Interior CS Fred Matiang’i will undermine him.

Ruto took to Twitter on Thursday to deny perceived conflict as he backed changes President Uhuru Kenyatta made through an Executive Order on Monday. 

“Government officers at all levels should align their operations to the order issued by President Uhuru Kenyatta setting up committees at county, regional and national levels as well as at the Cabinet),” Ruto tweeted.

Ruto through, his official Twitter handle, said changes would lead to “effective implementation of projects and programmes and efficient communication”.

Matiang’i will chair a committee of all CSs in his role of coordinating government projects, according to the order.

A number of Ruto’s supporters have perceived additional responsibilities given to Matiang’ as designed to undermine him.

Legislators allied

It has also emerged some legislators allied to Ruto are planning a meeting next week to review recent political developments in the country, including Matiang’i’s new roles and advance the DP’s 2022 bid.

“As DP’s foot soldiers, we did not want to throw punches in the air. We are now re-strategising so that the same punches can be directed to right place,” said Keiyo South MP Daniel Rono.

He added: “At first, we saw it important to keep quiet because it helps to keep your rivals in the dark not knowing what strategy you have. The planned meeting called by the majority leadership is key and will be beneficial.” 

Ruto hosted leaders of the Pentecostal Evangelistic Fellowship of Africa for a breakfast meeting at his Karen residence.

Throughout the meeting that lasted over two hours, Ruto did not mention any of his perceived woes. He instead appealed to religious organisations to support the Government in the fight against corruption.