Henry Rotich, the former Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, has taken on a new role as President William Ruto’s special advisor. This appointment comes after Mr. Rotich’s departure from the Treasury amidst accusations of fraud involving significant tenders. Despite the apparent downgrade in his position, insiders believe that his new role may wield substantial influence, given its proximity to the seat of power.
In his new capacity as a senior advisor on Fiscal Affairs Budget Policy in the Office of the President, Mr. Rotich’s influence may not be as limited as it seems. The recent case of Dr. David Ndii, another special advisor to President Ruto, has demonstrated the significant impact these advisors can have on policy-making.
While some may view these appointments as mere formalities, the reality is that these advisors, including individuals like Dr. Cheruiyot and Mr. Ali Mohamed, hold considerable sway over policy decisions. Their collective influence, all housed within State House, ultimately answers to one person: President Ruto.
The role of the Treasury in light of these developments has come into question, with suggestions that its functions may be at odds with the Public Finance Management Act. Despite this, Mr. Rotich has denied declining the appointment and has been exonerated of the previous accusations against him.
Ultimately, the power and impact of these advisors, often referred to as the President’s “kitchen cabinet,” remain subject to the President’s discretion. As one commentator noted, “the buck stops with the President.” The true extent of Mr. Rotich’s influence in his new role is yet to be seen, but it is clear that his appointment signifies a significant shift in the dynamics of President Ruto’s advisory team.
The influence of advisors in President Ruto’s administration, particularly the appointment of Henry Rotich as a special advisor, has raised questions about the balance of power and the decision-making process within the government. The implications of these appointments are likely to be closely monitored in the coming months.
The appointment of Henry Rotich as President Ruto’s special advisor has sparked discussions about the influence of advisors in the current administration and the dynamics of decision-making at the highest levels of government. The true extent of Mr. Rotich’s influence in his new role is yet to be seen, but it is clear that his appointment signifies a significant shift in the composition of President Ruto’s advisory team.