This archive report was first published on 30 September 2019.
President Uhuru Kenyatta's second term has seen a significant shift in the national government's dynamics. After a tumultuous first term, marked by internal sabotage from Deputy President William Ruto, the President embarked on a systematic reorganization of the government. This move saw him bring in individuals who are fiercely committed to his agenda, including Raila Odinga, who has provided valuable advice and support.
The recent restructuring of the Presidential Delivery Unit, Cabinet reshuffles, and strengthening of information flow from the grassroots are part of this new structure, which is now complete. The outcome is a stable administrative state that is quickly adjusting to the Big Pour agenda.
President Kenyatta's decision to bring Raila Odinga on board was a strategic move to weaken the political structure, which relied on sleaze and business of crime. The ceremonial handshake between the two leaders on March 9, outside Harambee House, marked a significant turning point in the Kenyatta succession plan.
During his first term, President Kenyatta looked like a minion rather than an astute leader, often fading into the shadow of his deputy, William Ruto. However, with the war against corruption and cartel networks, President Kenyatta has weakened the political system and set loose the state machinery to clamp down on financial structures that financed the rogue political state.
Key changes have been made in the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Police Service, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, and Kenya Revenue Authority. These institutions are now manned by career intelligence officers and detectives, a move that is by design.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has been appointed as chairperson of the National Development Implementation and Communication Committee, mandated to supervise the execution of government programmes. A technical team, chaired by Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho, has also been established to supervise government projects.
Regional and County Development Implementation Committees have been set up, chaired by regional and county commissioners. The new guidelines on standards, procedures, and reporting requirements have seen most information flows through the administration structures.
With a single coordinating ministry, President Kenyatta has been implementing the 'one government approach policy', through which the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of Government has been working with other ministries in the implementation of key government programmes.
