Muturi hands over Public Service docket amid transition

Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has officially handed over his duties to the Prime Cabinet Secretary’s Office on an interim basis as the government finalises the verification and approval process for his successor, Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku.

Until Ruku's appointment is confirmed, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s office will oversee public service affairs.

In a brief statement, Mudavadi thanked Muturi for his leadership, acknowledging his contributions to the public service sector.

“We sincerely appreciate Justin Muturi for his steadfast leadership and commitment to advancing public service during his tenure,” he said.

Mudavadi assured that the transition would be smooth, reinforcing the government’s commitment to efficient governance and accountability.

“This transition ensures continuity in government operations. The Prime Cabinet Secretary’s Office will oversee public service duties until a new appointment is confirmed,” he added.

Muturi, on his part, expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the ministry, stating it had been an honour to serve.

“I have formally transferred the Public Service docket to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. I deeply thank everyone in the ministry for their support and contributions toward enhancing public service,” he said.

Muturi’s exit follows concerns over his performance in key government roles, prompting President William Ruto to reassess his suitability for office.

Initially appointed Attorney General, Muturi had expressed reservations about his long absence from legal practice, which made him doubt his ability to handle the role effectively.

On March 31, President Ruto revealed that Muturi struggled in his position, citing frequent absences and underperformance.

“When I appointed my friend JB Muturi as Attorney General, he confided in me that he had been out of legal practice for too long and would be overwhelmed by the appointment,” Ruto said.

Despite these concerns, Ruto persuaded Muturi to take up the role, only to later acknowledge that it had indeed taken a toll on him.

“I take responsibility for not having listened to him earlier,” he said in media interview at Sagana State Lodge.

Ruto further stated that during Muturi’s tenure, government departments seeking legal advice from the Attorney General’s office faced difficulties due to incompetence within the office, leading to frustrations.

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• public service
• Geoffrey Ruku
• Muturi hands over Public Service docket amid transition
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To accommodate Muturi, Ruto reassigned him as Cabinet Secretary for Public Service. However, concerns over his commitment persisted. The president noted that Muturi frequently missed work and often gave excuses for his absences, ultimately leading to his removal.