From critic to advisor: Prof Makau Mutua defends Ruto's appointment amid backlash

Professor Makau Mutua has broken his silence following his appointment by President William Ruto, which has drawn mixed reactions, firmly responding to critics who questioned his decision to join the government.

In a message on social media, Prof Mutua said he was honoured to take up the role and committed to applying his legal expertise for the good of the country.

The announcement of his appointment as Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs in the Executive Office of the President was made on Wednesday.

The news sparked a flurry of reactions, with many pointing to his past criticism of the Head of State. However, Mutua insisted that his qualifications made him well-suited for the position and dismissed those opposed to his decision.

“I’ve spent my entire life in the law at the highest levels, especially in the United States. I can’t think of a better way to serve my native Kenya,” he posted on X.

He added that he would not be distracted by those questioning his appointment, stating that many of his critics would likely have accepted such a position if offered.

“I’m sure some of those upset would readily accept the appointment. Chill, folks, and let those who are qualified serve the country. I believe my expertise will be of service to the President and the nation,” he said.

President Ruto, in his statement, described Prof Mutua as a law professor with extensive expertise in legal, constitutional, and human rights matters.

“I have appointed Prof Makau Mutua as the Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs in the Executive Office of the President. Prof Mutua brings a wealth of experience in legal, constitutional, and human rights matters. Congratulations, Prof Mutua,” the President said.

In a separate message, the Head of State also expressed confidence that Mutua would support his administration in delivering the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

Mutua, in turn, thanked President Ruto for the appointment, highlighting the importance of the Constitution in guiding governance and public service.

“I am grateful to President William Ruto for appointing me Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs in the Executive Office of the President. Our Constitution is the beating heart of the Republic. Mr President, I promise to serve you and our fellow citizens with diligence, honour, and distinction,” he stated.

Prior to this appointment, Prof Mutua served as the spokesperson for Raila Odinga’s presidential campaign secretariat during the run-up to the 2022 elections.

His new role has drawn attention due to his previously vocal opposition to President Ruto.

In a 2020 opinion column published in a local newspaper, Mutua had categorically ruled out any future cooperation with Ruto, stating that he could never work for him.

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He claimed that a member of Ruto’s team had approached him to support his 2022 campaign, which he firmly rejected.

“I was dumbfounded and totally beside myself. I slapped myself to make sure I wasn’t in la-la land or in mental Siberia. I kept it together, even though I’m still reeling from the outlandish idea. In spite of the shock, I’ve kept my counsel until now,” he wrote in the column.

Mutua was unequivocal in his response at the time.

“Today, I give the answer. Mr Ruto and his campaign should read my lips, or rather, the words from the tip of my pen. The answer is nyet (Russian word for no). I can’t and won’t work with Mr Ruto. Never. Ever. Case closed.”

“Mr Ruto and his brigand can take this to the nearest bank — no bona fide civil society organisation, or any of their self-respecting members, will touch Ruto with a 10-foot pole. None,” he added.

“Whenever I hear the mention of Ruto, or sense his proximity, I head in the opposite direction. It’s been so since his emergence in Youth for Kanu ’92,” he further stated.