The rage of Kenyans over the political crisis sparked by anti-tax protests finally culminated in President William Ruto’s dismissal of his entire Cabinet.

Ruto said the move will accord him the opportunity to begin from a clean slate.

For almost four weeks, he has been under intense pressure from Kenyans to sack corrupt officials from his government, bring accountability and transparency, respect the Constitution and the rule of law and end police brutality, among other reform agendas.

Expectations are now he will cascade the decision taken yesterday to the lower echelons to end decades-old lethargy in government.

The Cabinet had shown signs of sharp divisions, total indifference and disdain for taxpayers.

The public display of opulence by officials has infuriated Kenyans, who are struggling to find jobs or fend for families. 

It has always been argued that Ruto failed to act because he was held captive by individuals in the Cabinet who campaigned for him to get power. 

So far, Ruto has also made some significant reforms in government. He banned civil servants from participating in harambees, directed them to cut spending and initiated the process of appointing new members of the electoral agency IEBC.

Ruto promised to adopt radical programmes aimed at dealing with the national debt, raising domestic resources, expanding job opportunities, and eliminating wastage and duplication of functions in several government agencies.

Hoping that the latest actions are not merely meant to manage the emotions and expectations of the public, the next move should target the security sector, parastatals and other government agencies where impunity reigns supreme and meritocracy has been thrown out the window.

All public officers who have been implicated in corruption, abuse of office and misuse of public resources should be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted if found culpable.

As Ruto reorganises his government, he should remain cognisant of the hue and cry of Kenyans against police brutality, abductions, corruption and their contempt for the rule of law.

Heads should roll among the top police brass, followed by prosecutions for the recent cold-blood killings of peaceful protesting young Kenyans.

Importantly, the Cabinet purge should be used as a new beginning to usher in hope, prosperity, accountability and transparency in governance.