Muturi Alleges Cabinet Members Too 'Timid' to Speak Freely

Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has escalated his criticism of President William Ruto, asserting that a climate of fear pervades the Cabinet, hindering open communication. 

Muturi, ousted from his position in late March, alleges that his former colleagues are hesitant to interact with him, even avoiding contact on platforms like WhatsApp due to potential repercussions. In a televised interview on Friday, Muturi claimed that some Cabinet Secretaries have expressed concerns about being seen communicating with him, resorting to indirect communication through intermediaries. 

His allegations surfaced following his dismissal, announced on March 26 by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, leading Muturi to suggest that the current administration stifles dissent and transparency. When questioned about other Cabinet members sharing his sentiments, Muturi characterized them as "timid" and reluctant to voice their opinions.

President Ruto, in defence, cited Muturi's alleged absenteeism and lack of commitment as reasons for his termination. During a recent interview at Sagana State Lodge, Ruto stated that Muturi's failure to attend Cabinet meetings essentially constituted a self-inflicted dismissal. He emphasized the importance of accountability and active participation in government operations, asking, "If you are a CS and you don't attend meetings, what am I supposed to do?"

Despite his dismissal, Muturi has emphasized his achievements, particularly his efforts to establish the independence of the state law office. He argues that this initiative was a fulfilment of campaign promises made by the administration and reaffirms his commitment to delivering on the government's manifesto.

“I don’t have to defend myself about that, the record is there for everybody to see. When I got there we had committed ourselves in the manifesto that we will make the office of the state law independent. I went there, and I did exactly that with the concurrence of parliament,” he explains.