Rachael Shebesh Rejects Proposal to Become Nairobi Deputy Governor, Says Not Interested in Politics

Public Service Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Rachel Shebesh has rejected a proposal to replace Polycarp Igathe as the new Nairobi Deputy Governor.

The former Nairobi Woman Representative rejected calls by Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi to become Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko’s deputy, stating that she is a civil servant and not interested in politics.

She said she is looking to use her current position to transform the country and she's not interested in the Deputy Governor seat that fell vacant after the resignation of Igathe.

“You have been a very great friend of mine. I’m no longer a politician but a civil servant. I can tell you the transition has been quick because of the direction of President Uhuru Kenyatta, no more politicking,” Shebesh said at St John’s Methodist Church in Kirua, Buuri.

Kiraitu had asked Shebesh to take up the position, arguing that she is “well-versed with the politics of the city”.

However, Shebesh said, “I’m committed to the transformation agenda and writing the legacy of President Uhuru Kenyatta through this ministry. This [CAS] opportunity given to me is a chance in a million to be able to turn my passion into action. There was a time I was a politician.”

Shebesh is in the list of names of five women that Sonko recently submitted to the Nairobi County Assembly for vetting and approval.

Others in the list include; former ODM nominated Senator Elizabeth Ongoro, Citizen TV news presenter Ann Kiguta, Lawyer Karen Nyamu and city business lady Agness Kariuki.

Earlier this week, Sonko announced that his new deputy will be a well educated woman from the Kikuyu community.