Devolution CS Charles Keter Quits Cabinet to Run for Kericho Governor's Seat

Devolution Cabinet Secretary Charles Keter has formally resigned from his position to run for political office in the August 9th elections. 

“I have today tendered my resignation to President Uhuru Kenyatta, in line with the Elections Act and complying with the circular issued by Head of Public Service last week,” Keter announced during a media briefing on Tuesday.

"I wish to sincerely thank the president for giving me the opportunity to serve in his cabinet since 2016. With a lot of humility I want to reiterate my appreciation to the president for the honor bestowed on me.”

Keter, who previously served as the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, announced he will contest for the Kericho gubernatorial seat in the forthcoming elections.

He will be seeking to succeed Prof. Paul Chepkwony whose second and final term as Kericho governor ends in August.

“I am riding on my experience as Cabinet Secretary, long political experience, and first knowledge of my people and home,” Keter added.

Keter, who joined the Cabinet in 2015 after resigning as Kericho Senator, will contest for the seat under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. “I have competitors…I believe in competition and I am ready for it,” he added.

The Elections Act requires all public officers seeking elective positions to vacate office six months before the General Election.

Other Cabinet Secretaries who are expected to resign to join politics include Ukur Yattani (Treasury), John Munyes (Petroleum), Sicily Kariuki (Water), and Simon Chelugui (Labor).