In an unexpected twist in Kenya’s political landscape, several opposition members from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party have been nominated to head key ministries within President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration. If approved by Parliament, these appointments will place ODM leaders at the helm of some of the government’s flagship programs, including those they previously criticized.
Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, the ODM deputy party leader, is set to take charge of the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSME Development. Notably, Oparanya has been a vocal critic of the Hustler Fund, a pivotal initiative of the Ruto administration aimed at supporting small businesses. If confirmed, Oparanya will oversee this fund, marking a significant role reversal.
John Mbadi, ODM National Chairperson, has been nominated to succeed Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u at the Ministry of Treasury and Economic Planning. This critical ministry oversees the national debt and economic policies, areas where Mbadi has frequently criticized government strategies. He will now be tasked with addressing these very issues, including the rising public debt and the high cost of living.
James Opiyo Wandayi, the National Assembly Minority Leader, is poised to lead the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum. His appointment comes at a time when the country grapples with high fuel and electricity costs. Wandayi will also manage the last mile connectivity project, which has faced challenges due to budget constraints.
Hassan Ali Joho, a former critic of President Ruto over port issues, is the nominee for the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs. Joho will oversee the development of the Blue Economy sector, a key focus for the Ruto administration, and the exploration of newly discovered coltan deposits across several counties.
These appointments have sparked discussions about the potential impact and alignment of these ODM leaders with the policies they once opposed. The nominees will need to reconcile their previous stances with their new responsibilities, a task that may require significant shifts in their political and policy positions.