Replacing Kassait with Chelagat: State Facing Backlash Over Perceived Ethnic Bias in Public Position

Ndegwa Njiru Criticises Ruto Over Lydia Chelagat’s Nomination As Data Commissioner

Lawyer and Wiper Patriotic Front spokesperson Ndegwa Njiru has questioned President William Ruto’s commitment to fair regional representation following the nomination of Lydia Sitienei Chelagat as Kenya’s next Data Commissioner.

Njiru criticised the decision in a social media statement on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, arguing that the appointment raised questions about the administration’s commitment to its public message of equality.

The lawyer specifically referred to Ruto’s repeated use of the slogan “Usawa ni Sawa” during his political engagements, suggesting that the nomination contradicted the principle the President had been promoting.

Njiru took issue with Chelagat’s proposed appointment to replace Immaculate Kassait, who served as Kenya’s first Data Commissioner from 2020. He questioned the regional considerations surrounding the selection, describing the decision as inconsistent with the government’s message on inclusivity.

His criticism has introduced another political debate surrounding appointments to senior public offices, particularly the need to balance professional qualifications with constitutional requirements on representation.

However, the nomination followed a recruitment exercise conducted by the Public Service Commission. According to reports, the process attracted 152 applications, with 13 candidates eventually shortlisted for interviews held on October 5, 2026.

Chelagat previously served as Director of Legal Services and Corporation Secretary at the Communications Authority of Kenya. President Ruto nominated her on November 9 following the commission’s recommendation.

Government spokesperson Charles Owino Wahong’o confirmed that her name had been forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration under the Data Protection Act.

If approved, Chelagat will serve a single, non-renewable six-year term, overseeing the enforcement of privacy laws and protection of personal information.

The parliamentary process will determine whether she assumes the position. Meanwhile, Njiru’s intervention has placed regional balance and accountability in public appointments at the centre of political discussion as the country approaches another election cycle. People Daily +2

https://peopledaily.digital/inside-politics/ndengwa-njiru-takes-aim-at-ruto-over-chelagats-data-commissioner-nomination

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