I am not arrogant, just serious - Kabogo responds to criticism of his leadership style

Information and Communication Cabinet Secretary nominee William Kabogo has firmly rejected allegations that he ignores summons from Parliament.

Speaking on Tuesday during his vetting, Kabogo explained that he would always honour any summons from Parliament, including both the Senate and the National Assembly, to address questions.

He noted that during his tenure as Kiambu governor, he had appeared before the Senate for three consecutive years, demonstrating his commitment to accountability.

He also mentioned that he would bring along ministry staff, such as the Principal Secretary, to answer questions when necessary.

"I came to the clerk of that committee and said, should any county be invited to the Senate and they do not appear, Kiambu can appear. It’s just next door, even on short notice," he recalled.

"I believe in appearing before the House of Parliament, both the Senate and the National Assembly, to answer any questions that may arise. I will honour invitations to appear.”

Addressing claims of arrogance, Kabogo attributed his perceived sternness to his serious demeanour and strong personality, not arrogance.

He stated that he values doing things the right way, often with a straightforward approach, which some may misinterpret as being highheaded.

Kabogo also responded to a remark about his appearance, with some questioning whether his serious face and bald head might intimidate others, joking that it could be a character trait of people from Kiambu.

"I believe in doing things right. I have a very serious face, just like yourself, and that may sometimes be confused with arrogance, but I am very straightforward and do not beat around the bush," he said.

Kabogo further elaborated that his directness is essential in making progress, citing his tenure as governor of Kiambu, where his approach to leadership brought order to a challenging county.

His remarks came in response to questions about his leadership style, with some questioning whether his serious demeanour could be interpreted as intimidating.

In support, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah remarked that Kabogo's straightforward nature was a characteristic often associated with people from Kiambu.

"It's a character trait of people from Kiambu—being straightforward. Sometimes, we are misconstrued to be arrogant, but that's just the way we are," he said.