This archive report was first published on 24 August 2019.
On August 24, 2019, President Uhuru Kenyatta issued Executive Order Number Six of 2019, further expanding the powers of Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i.
According to the order, Matiang'i will now be responsible for coordinating the delivery of national priorities and flagship programmes, in addition to his existing duties.
The move has sparked concerns that Matiang'i's increased powers may be used to undermine the ambitions of Deputy President William Ruto, who has been a key ally of the President in the past.
However, the President's office has denied any such intentions, stating that the changes are aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of government operations.
As part of the changes, the Irrigation department has been merged with the Water ministry, with Simon Chelugui taking over as the new minister.
Observers have welcomed the move, stating that it is a long-overdue change that will help to improve the management of water resources in the country.
Meanwhile, Agriculture CS Mwangi Kiunjuri has been left out of the new cabinet, sparking speculation that he may have fallen out of favor with the President.
With the 2022 elections just around the corner, the President's decision to give Matiang'i more powers has raised eyebrows, with some analysts suggesting that it may be a move to consolidate his own power and influence in the country.
