Senator Okenyuri to Ruto: We need radical changes, heads must roll

Senator Okenyuri Urges President Ruto to Take Decisive Action on Underperforming Officials
Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri has called on President William Ruto to take firm action against members of his government who are failing to deliver on their mandates. Speaking in the Senate on Wednesday, Okenyuri stressed that radical changes were needed, warning that retaining underperforming officials could jeopardize the administration’s agenda. Politics should be separated from friendship. If you hold on to your friends, Mr. President, we might sink with them, she cautioned, urging swift accountability measures.
Okenyuri’s remarks come amid growing public scrutiny of the government’s performance, particularly following controversies surrounding the Finance Bill, 2024, which triggered widespread protests over rising costs of living. The senator praised Ruto’s overall vision for Kenya but emphasized that its success depends on eliminating inefficiency and corruption within the cabinet and civil service. President Ruto himself recently acknowledged the need for reflection on his team’s performance, admitting that some members could have contributed more effectively to implementing his policy agenda.
The call for reforms has sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of the administration see Okenyuri’s statements as a necessary push to strengthen governance and restore public confidence, while critics argue that reshuffles alone may not address deeper structural issues. Analysts suggest that the president’s response could influence public perception ahead of key political cycles, shaping alliances and the credibility of his leadership.
Looking ahead, the pressure on President Ruto to act decisively may accelerate cabinet reshuffles and prompt tighter oversight of government departments. Okenyuri’s intervention highlights a broader demand for accountability in Kenyan politics, signaling that citizens and lawmakers alike expect tangible results rather than political loyalty. How the president addresses these concerns could define the trajectory of his administration and its ability to deliver on promises before the 2027 general elections.