- Kipchumba Murkomen faced criticism during his tenure as Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport
- Despite being dismissed, President William Ruto has nominated Murkomen for a new position within the Cabinet
- His nomination has been met with mixed reactions from the public
Kipchumba Murkomen, who previously served as the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, faced criticism during his tenure.
Some Kenyans were displeased with what they perceived as his bravado and arrogance. His seemingly extravagant lifestyle also drew ire, with accusations that he was misusing public funds to finance his displays.
On July 11, Murkomen was dismissed from his post alongside several colleagues. Despite the public discontent, President William Ruto has now nominated him for a new position within the Cabinet.
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Ruto re-appoints Murkomen
On July 24, President Ruto proposed Murkomen's return to the Cabinet, albeit in a different role. Murkomen has been nominated to serve as the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports. This decision has been met with mixed reactions from the public.
Upon his nomination, Murkomen expressed gratitude to President Ruto and acknowledged the discomfort his previous conduct may have caused. He took to social media to share his reflections and commitments.
"Honoured and grateful to have been nominated by H.E. the President William Ruto as the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports. Thank you, Mr. President, for this incredible opportunity to serve our great nation, Kenya," Murkomen said.
READ: How Cabinet Secretaries who resigned from previous jobs took news of their dismissal
Murkomen offers apology to Kenyans & pledges accountability in new role
He admitted to reflecting deeply on his past actions and apologized to those he may have offended.
Murkomen emphasised his intention to improve his conduct and serve Kenyans with humility and accountability in his new role.
"The last two weeks have been moments of deep reflection. I would like to unreservedly apologise to every Kenyan who I may have offended through my words, my deeds, and my conduct, including my lifestyle, in the last two years of my public service. Subject to my approval by Parliament, I pledge to serve the people of Kenya diligently, with great humility, and unwavering accountability. Thank you very much. God bless you, and God bless Kenya," he stated.
Murkomen is among the ten nominees President Ruto has added to his Cabinet. This new cohort includes figures from the opposition who have been entrusted with some of the most critical dockets.