Ruto Hints at Replacing CS Alfred Mutua, Reveals Plans to Pick Another Minister

President William Ruto has signaled that Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua may soon be relieved of his ministerial duties to concentrate on his 2027 bid for the Machakos Senate seat.

Speaking during his development tour in Machakos County, Ruto told residents that Mutua would be freed to pursue elective politics while another minister is appointed to take over the Labour docket. “Kwa hivyo niwapee huyu akatafute ya Senator. Na nichukue mwengine awe waziri.. lakini mwambieni chama ni gani.. baas!” he said, prompting cheers from the crowd. Translated, the President indicated he would allow Mutua to seek the Senate seat and replace him with another minister, while urging locals to remind Mutua which party he should run under.

The remarks were interpreted as part of Ruto’s wider push to strengthen the UDA party in Ukambani, a region traditionally dominated by the Wiper Party. By nudging Mutua towards a UDA ticket, the President appeared to be positioning his party to challenge Wiper’s influence in Machakos.

Mutua, who served two terms as Machakos governor before joining the national government, has long been seen as a key player in Ukambani politics. His Senate bid would mark a return to county-level contests, potentially reshaping the political dynamics of the region.

No formal communication has yet been issued regarding Mutua’s exit from the Cabinet or the appointment of his successor. Critics have questioned the timing of the announcement, noting that the Labour docket remains busy with reforms and national employment challenges.

Ruto’s three-day tour of Ukambani has been politically charged, with the President also visiting Kitui County, where he directed that a road be tarmacked up to Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s gate. The move underscored the government’s determination to cut into opposition strongholds ahead of 2027.

Supporters view the announcement as a strategic plan to build a strong UDA ticket in Machakos, while opponents argue it raises questions about governance priorities.

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