Ruto Reshuffles Top State Agencies, Axes Key Raila Critic in Surprise Shake-Up

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Ruto Reshuffles Top State Agencies, Axes Key Raila Critic in Surprise Shake-Up

In a surprising move signaling a major political realignment, President William Ruto has undertaken a sweeping reshuffle across several top state agencies, including the dismissal of Odoyo Owidi, a prominent critic of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Owidi, who served as the Chairperson of the Board of the Lake Victoria South Water Works Development Agency, was removed from his position through a presidential directive issued on Friday, May 16. Daniel Shem Omino was appointed as his replacement and will serve a three-year term.

The dismissal comes amid broader efforts by President Ruto to restructure his administration and accommodate leaders from across the political spectrum, particularly from Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). The changes are widely seen as part of a broader strategy to strengthen a multi-party coalition ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking publicly for the first time since his dismissal, Owidi appeared on Ramogi TV on Tuesday, May 20, where he directly addressed the circumstances surrounding his removal. According to him, the shake-up was part of a deliberate effort to integrate ODM figures into government positions following a thaw in relations between Ruto and Raila.

“We were in government as UDA, but when ODM came on board, we had to start rearranging the government,” Owidi stated. “This began with the Cabinet Secretaries. We needed to create space for Luos, which is why Owalo stepped aside from his CS role. The same applied to PS and chairperson positions.”

Owidi revealed that the President approached him personally to discuss the intended changes. He described the conversation as transparent, and indicated he did not resist the decision. He emphasized that the reshuffle was not punitive but a calculated move to ensure inclusivity in government appointments.

“The head of state was honest with me,” Owidi said. “He explained that bringing in ODM would require adjustments. I understood and accepted it. If my exit helps strengthen the coalition we are trying to build, then it serves a greater good.”

Despite his removal, Owidi maintained that he remains part of the government and suggested that he had been given a more significant, though undisclosed, role. “Let no one be disturbed. I am still in government, and the responsibility I now hold is greater than what I had at Lake Victoria,” he said.

Owidi, once a member of ODM himself, fell out with the party ahead of the 2022 General Election. He cited internal issues, including a lack of transparency, as reasons for his departure. Since then, he has been one of Raila Odinga’s most vocal critics, making his removal particularly notable in the context of the recent rapprochement between the President and the former Prime Minister.

His dismissal forms part of a wider set of changes affecting top positions within the administration. Months prior, President Ruto had already initiated a Cabinet reshuffle that saw the exit of several key figures. Among them was Justin Muturi, the former Cabinet Secretary for Public Service. Muturi was replaced by Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku, in a move confirmed through a State House statement issued from Nairobi.

The reshuffle also affected leadership in other ministries. Aden Duale was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Health, replacing Deborah Barasa, who was transferred to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. Meanwhile, Hannah Cheptumo was named the new Cabinet Secretary for Gender and Culture. Her appointment has sparked public discussion, with some critics questioning the selection process and the representation balance within the reshuffled Cabinet.

The cumulative effect of these changes points to a deliberate recalibration of government personnel to reflect the evolving political partnerships and demographic considerations. Analysts view the inclusion of ODM leaders in strategic roles as a signal of deepening cooperation between Ruto and Raila, once fierce political rivals.

Owidi’s comments reinforce the perception that the shake-up is intended to solidify a broad-based government, potentially aligning previously divided political factions in preparation for the next electoral cycle.

“I said, if my stepping aside will help us move forward and build a coalition that lasts through 2027, then I am ready,” Owidi said, reaffirming his commitment to the broader political project.

Observers note that the President’s approach appears aimed at creating political stability by distributing power and influence more evenly across regions and party lines. However, the move has also triggered criticism from some within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), who fear it may dilute the party’s influence in the administration.

While Owidi’s new role remains undisclosed, his public endorsement of the reshuffle suggests continued loyalty to President Ruto. His calm and cooperative tone during the interview is likely intended to de-escalate any political tension his dismissal may have caused among UDA supporters.

The reshuffle marks a significant moment in the reconfiguration of Kenya’s political architecture. It demonstrates President Ruto’s willingness to make tough decisions in pursuit of a broader governing coalition and a more inclusive administration.

Whether this move will translate into long-term political stability remains to be seen. For now, the shake-up serves as a clear indication that the President is focused on building a united front capable of withstanding future political tests — particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 polls.

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Ruto Reshuffles Top State Agencies, Axes Key Raila Critic in Surprise Shake-Up