Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly pledged his support for the Cabinet Secretaries (CS) from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). This commitment came during a development tour in Kisii and Nyamira Counties, which he accompanied President William Ruto on, from August 11 to August 13, 2024.

Gachagua affirmed that the Kenya Kwanza administration will back the four ODM members appointed by Ruto to head various government departments. He emphasized that the broad-based cabinet formed by Ruto is intended to bridge the country’s divisions and unify Kenyans.

Unity and Cabinet Composition

“The President is striving to unite the citizens, and even those from ODM who have been appointed as ministers will receive our support. We stand behind the President’s effort to bring together people from different regions and move the country forward,” Gachagua stated.

The ODM members appointed to the cabinet are John Mbadi as CS for National Treasury, Ali Hassan Joho as CS for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Wycliffe Oparanya as CS for Cooperatives and MSMEs, and Opiyo Wandayi as CS for Energy.

Broad-Based Cabinet Initiative

President Ruto, following the dismissal of his previous cabinet, has focused on creating a broad-based executive that includes key opposition figures. This initiative aims to foster national unity and drive essential transformations in the country.

On July 19, 2024, Ruto outlined his vision for a broad-based cabinet, highlighting its role in achieving irreversible and critical changes for Kenya. This marks the formation of Ruto’s second cabinet in his tenure as Kenya’s fifth president.