The expected coalition agreement between President William Ruto and Raila Odinga is set to bring changes to the government.
Reports by the Star newspaper indicate that three key ministries Health, Water, and Agriculture will experience leadership changes as part of the new power-sharing arrangement.
This move is seen as an effort to ensure ODM secures a meaningful role in Ruto’s administration. The agreement, which is expected to be finalized at KICC, will pave the way for a reshuffle that reflects the new political reality.
Deborah Mlongo, the current Health Cabinet Secretary, is among those likely to be removed. Her replacement is expected to come from Raila’s camp, strengthening ODM’s presence in government.
The Health Ministry is a critical sector, and Raila’s influence over its leadership will give him more leverage in policy decisions. ODM’s control over such a crucial docket will allow it to shape key healthcare policies, including the implementation of universal healthcare, which has been a contentious issue.
The appointment will also serve as a strategic move for Raila, ensuring that his allies are placed in influential government positions.
Eric Muuga, who heads the Water Ministry, is also expected to be affected by the reshuffle. The Water docket is important, especially given the ongoing concerns about water shortages and management issues across the country.
ODM’s potential nominee for this position is likely to push for policies that align with Raila’s broader agenda. This change is seen as an effort to balance power within the government and address concerns that Ruto’s administration has been dominated by his UDA party.
The Agriculture Ministry, currently under Mutahi Kagwe, is another critical area set for restructuring. Agriculture plays a big role in Kenya’s economy, contributing to food security and employment.
The leadership of this ministry will be a major point of negotiation between Ruto and Raila. Whoever takes over the docket will have to address pressing issues such as the high cost of farming inputs, declining agricultural productivity, and ongoing disputes over subsidized fertilizers.
This appointment will be closely watched, as it will determine the direction of Kenya’s agricultural policies in the coming years.These expected changes highlight the broader restructuring of government aimed at accommodating ODM in Ruto’s administration.
The coalition agreement is a major political shift, signaling a new phase of collaboration between two longtime political rivals. While some view this as a positive step toward national unity, others see it as a calculated move to consolidate power.
Once the final list of Cabinet appointments is announced, it will be clear how the power dynamics within the government have shifted and what role ODM will play in shaping Kenya’s future policies.
