Ruto's new appointments raise questions on commitment to austerity pledge

Following massive demonstrations protesting stringent tax policies and calling for economic reforms, President Ruto had pledged to implement austerity measures, including halving the number of government advisors to alleviate the financial burden on the state.

On July 5, 2024, addressing the nation, President Ruto stated, "The following actions shall be taken with immediate effect towards the realization of the new budget: the number of advisors in government shall be reduced by 50 percent within the public service with immediate effect."

The protests, predominantly driven by the youth referred to as 'Gen Zs,' had gripped the country for over a month, compelling the government to promise significant concessions aimed at reducing public expenditure and addressing economic grievances.

Contrary to this pledge, the President has recently appointed former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria and former ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo to key advisory positions. 

Moses Kuria has been integrated into the council of economic advisors headed by Dr. David Ndii, while Eliud Owalo has been appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Performance and Delivery Management. 

Additionally, Dennis Itumbi has been named to head the Creative Economy and Special Projects Office in the Office of the President.

In a statement justifying the appointments, Head of Public Service Felix Kosgei remarked, "The new appointees will play a crucial role in supporting the Kenya Kwanza administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Agenda (BETA) and will be responsible for the effective and efficient implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of priority projects and initiatives of the government."

These appointments have sparked debate and raised questions regarding the consistency between President Ruto's commitments and actions, especially in light of the country's current financial constraints. 

Critics argue that bringing back former cabinet secretaries into advisory roles contradicts the administration's earlier stance on reducing government spending and streamlining operations.

Political analyst Jane Mwangi commented, "These appointments send mixed signals about the government's commitment to fiscal discipline. At a time when the country is grappling with economic challenges, expanding the advisory team seems counterintuitive to the promised austerity measures."

Supporters of the President, however, contend that the expertise and experience of the new appointees are essential for driving the government's economic agenda forward.

 They argue that strategic appointments are necessary to ensure the successful implementation of policies aimed at economic recovery and growth.

As the debate continues, many citizens await further clarification from the government on how these appointments align with the previously stated objectives of reducing public expenditure and addressing the economic concerns that led to the widespread protests.