Economic recovery tops agenda as Ruto meets Cabinet, MPs

 

When President William Ruto chaired a Cabinet meeting at State House Nairobi. [PCS]

President Ruto will meet the Kenya Kwanza parliamentary group and audit his Cabinet in a crucial Naivasha retreat that starts today.

In the meeting, the President is expected to set the tone for the government's priorities for the new year, with economic recovery and service delivery topping the themes for the retreat.

According to Friday's State House dispatch, the meeting will focus on evaluating the performance of ministries and State offices.

"The retreat is expected to review the performance of all ministries and State offices and map out the priorities for 2024 that will be codified in the ministerial performance contracts. This year’s retreat has been preceded by a roadshow under the stewardship of Public Service ministry in conjunction with the Cabinet Office," said the dispatch.

The retreat will start with the Cabinet meeting with the parliamentary group tomorrow, where they will discuss issues relating to economic recovery and service delivery.

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei expressed confidence in the administration's performance, saying the President was focused on collaboration between the Executive and Parliament to review and enhance their joint efforts.

"We have policies, proposals and Bills to pass, which involve the Executive. This meeting will see us sit down and figure out how to proceed with development," Mr Cherargei said, indicating a commitment to identify and addressing areas for improvement.

Public Service CS Moses Kuria said the meeting will serve as a platform for the Cabinet to explain its agenda, discuss the way forward and outline its role in the nation's development.

A State House dispatch underscored the successes of 2023 retreat, leading to decision to hold the retreat annually. 

"We are changing the government to deliver services the way the corporate sector does," said Mr Kuria, expressing confidence in the government's ability to address gaps through a cooperative approach.

CS Kuria said this will be the second retreat for the Ruto administration, following a two-day forum in Nanyuki in November 2023, where the progress of the government's first year was thoroughly evaluated.

"The president is pushing for a one-stop government. He will also hold the Executive accountable on Tuesday and Wednesday when we return to Parliament," said Mr Cherargei, emphasising the commitment to accountability.

"The meeting in Naivasha will provide an opportunity for Cabinet members, principal secretaries and advisers to present their assessments and strategies for the upcoming year," said CS Kuria.

He said focus on economic recovery and service delivery aligns with the government's commitment to addressing national priorities and fulfilling promises in the Kenya Kwanza manifesto.