September, Thursday 19, 2024

Alfred Mutua, Kenya's Foreign Minister, faces demotion in Ruto's recent restructuring.


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Kenya's Foreign Minister Alfred Mutua has been demoted to tourism minister following controversy over plans to send police to Haiti to combat gangs. Opposition leader Raila Odinga opposed the move, expressing concerns about the safety of Kenyan police officers. The demotion was part of President William Ruto's first major cabinet reshuffle. Ruto, who took office in August last year, has faced opposition-led protests over the high cost of living and tax increases. The president stated that the reshuffle aimed to enhance performance and delivery, while also implementing budget cuts on government spending and foreign travel by 10%. The move is seen as an attempt to increase the influence of Ruto's inner circle over diplomatic affairs. Some members of parliament have called for parliamentary approval before the deployment of Kenyan police to Haiti. Trade Minister Moses Kuria was also moved to the public service portfolio in the reshuffle, with Rebecca Miano taking his place. Further changes include the reassignment of permanent secretaries and foreign ambassadors, as well as the appointment of former Senator Isaac Mwaura as government spokesperson.