Lee Kinyanjui accepts Ruto’s cabinet nomination and vows to respect constitution

Former Nakuru County Governor Lee Kinyanjui on Saturday, December 28, 2024, publicly accepted President William Ruto’s nomination to serve in the cabinet.

In a statement, Kinyanjui, who has been nominated to serve in the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, attributed his decision to God and the greater good of the nation.

“For God and country, I accept the honour of nomination to serve our nation as the Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade, and Industry,” Kinyanjui’s statement read in part.

He extended his gratitude to President Ruto for entrusting him to steer forward his agenda through the trade docket. The former governor indicated that the president showed trust in his abilities to deliver for his administration.

Kinyanjui however pledged to uphold the constitution, integrity and honesty while executing his duties.

“I take this opportunity to thank the President, H.E William Ruto, for demonstrating confidence in my ability to steer this critical docket.

“As always, integrity, respect for the Constitution, and honesty shall guide my way,” his statement read in part.

Kinyanjui was floored by the incumbent Nakuru County boss Susan Kihika during the 2022 General Election. He had only served for one term.

However, Kinyanjui made a comeback to the political limelight following his nomination which was a culmination of the meeting between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Ruto.

He was brought on board alongside Mutahi Kagwe and former Kiambu governor William Kabogo. Kagwe was nominated as Cabinet Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development while Kabogo was fronted to the Ministry of Information, Communications and The Digital Economy.

Vetting

The new Cabinet Secretary nominees will be vetted by the Committee on Appointments on January 14, 2025.

In a schedule released by the National Assembly Clerk Samuel Njoroge, the exercise will take place at County Hall, within Parliament Buildings.

Also scheduled for vetting are the new Ambassador nominees who include former CSs Margaret Nyambura, Dr. Andrew Karanja and Ababu Namwamba, as well as former Deputy Inspector General Noor Gabow.

The four will be vetted by the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence And Foreign Relations on January 10, 2025, in Committee Room 9, 1st Floor, Main Parliament Buildings.

The Departmental Committee on Labour will also vet eight nominees to the Public Service Commission (PSC) including vice-chairperson Mary Kimonye, on January 9, 2025.