Ruto Nominates Dorcas Odour as Attorney General

President William Ruto has put forward Dorcas Odour’s name for the role of Attorney General.

Odour, currently serving as the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, is poised to replace Justin Muturi who has been tapped for the role of Public Service Cabinet Secretary. This move is part of a broader Cabinet reshuffle that has seen Rebecca Miano reassigned to the Tourism ministry following the dissolution of Ruto’s entire Cabinet. Odour’s credentials include a Master of Arts in International Conflict Management and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Nairobi, as well as a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law. She is also an advocate of the High Court of Kenya with extensive experience in public prosecution.

Should the National Assembly Committee on Appointments confirm her nomination and the President subsequently appoint her, Odour will assume the crucial role of principal legal adviser to the Government. Her responsibilities will encompass representing the national government in court proceedings and fulfilling any additional duties assigned by Parliament or the President. This appointment is part of President Ruto’s larger strategy to reconstitute his Cabinet which now includes several members from the Opposition party, ODM.

This inclusive approach aims to foster national unity and address political tensions that have characterized Ruto’s tenure. The diverse composition of the Cabinet is expected to bring fresh perspectives and enhance the administration’s ability to tackle Kenya’s challenges. Odour’s nomination comes at a critical time for Kenya as the country grapples with significant legal and political issues. The Attorney General’s role is vital in ensuring government actions align with the law and justice is served. Odour is lauded for her experience in handling complex legal matters, including economic, international, and emerging crimes.

Beyond her legal duties, Odour’s participation in the National Security Council will be crucial. This influential body advises the President on national security matters and coordinates government security agencies. The Cabinet reshuffle, including Odour’s nomination, follows a period of youth-led anti-government protests calling for increased accountability and transparency. President Ruto’s decision to dissolve his entire Cabinet and nominate new members appears to be a response to these demands and an attempt to reset his administration.

Reactions to Odour’s nomination have been mixed with supporters highlighting her legal expertise and experience as assets for the Attorney General position, while critics question the timing and motivations behind the Cabinet reshuffle. If successful, Dorcas Odour will shoulder the significant responsibility of being the Government’s principal legal adviser, representing the national government in legal proceedings, and contributing to the National Security Council.