Geoffrey Ruku: A political comeback fueled by resilience

Geoffrey Ruku Public Service, Human capital and Special Programs nominee. March 27, 2025. [Muriithi Mugo, Standard] Cabinet Secretary nominee for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku's meteoric rise has been marked by multiple political setbacks-but also by resilience. His appointment by President William Ruto, now awaiting confirmation by the National Assembly, is a significant milestone in his political journey, a testament to his perseverance, loyalty, and determination. Ruku's political career began in 2002 when he first vied for the Nthawa ward councillor seat. Finishing second, he did not give up. In 2013, he aligned himself with the United Republican Party (URP) led by then-Deputy President William Ruto, yet the Mbeere North parliamentary seat remained out of reach. In 2017, he sought the Embu senatorial seat but lost the Jubilee Party nominations to Njeru Ndwiga. Undeterred, he ran as an independent candidate for the Mbeere North parliamentary seat but was once more defeated by incumbent Muriuki Njagagua of Jubilee. However, 2022 marked a turning point. Running on the Democratic Party (DP) ticket, Ruku triumphed, defeating Njagagua and securing the Mbeere North parliamentary seat. His victory was a remarkable comeback after years of electoral defeats. Ruku's rise is closely tied to his unwavering loyalty to President William Ruto. As chair of the United Republican Party in Embu, he played a key role in mobilising support for Ruto's political vehicle, which later merged into the Jubilee Alliance. His steadfast support for the Kenya Kwanza administration has been evident, as he has frequently defended it in Parliament. As an MP, Ruku focused on transforming his constituency. He spearheaded the rebuilding of dilapidated schools, replacing them with modern, well-equipped facilities. His efforts in education extended to increasing bursary allocations from Sh5,000 to between Sh8,000 and Sh10,000, easing the financial burden on parents. However, his journey has not been without controversy. In 2022, Ruku introduced a bill seeking to criminalise protests and hold demonstrators accountable for property damage. The proposal faced fierce backlash, with critics accusing him of stifling democratic freedoms. He eventually withdrew the bill, illustrating the delicate balance politicians must strike between personal agendas and public opinion. Ruku has also been a key figure in the shifting political dynamics of Mt Kenya East. His support for Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as the region's spokesman is seen as an attempt to sideline Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. His endorsement of Gachagua's impeachment further cemented his role in regional power struggles. Following his nomination, Ruku expressed gratitude and a commitment to serving Kenya with the same dedication he has shown as MP. "I am deeply honoured by the nomination, and I promise to serve with the same dedication I have shown in representing the people of Mbeere North," Ruku said. He reiterated his belief in President Ruto's development agenda and pledged to work tirelessly to fulfil the President's promises to Kenyans. Ruku's constituents have praised his leadership. Mwangangi Wa Mbiti, a resident of Nthawa, thanked President Ruto for recognising Ruku's hard work, saying, "Ruku has worked tirelessly for our community, and I believe he will shine at the national level." Dennis Kinyua, a young local, expressed confidence in Ruku's ability to address youth unemployment. "He is dedicated to ensuring that the youth in Mbeere North get jobs and opportunities," he said. Rosemary Muturi, another resident, noted that Ruku's ability to unite the two Mbeere clans demonstrated his capacity to bring people together. "We believe in his work, and we urge him to continue with the same energy he has shown for the past two and a half years," she said. Dionisio Muturi, a parent, highlighted Ruku's educational initiatives, which have improved access to education. "Day scholars now pay only Sh1,300 per term, and this has made a huge difference for parents," Muturi said.

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