Ruto's Cabinet Nominee Ruku Declares Sh377 Million Net Worth

Geoffrey Ruku, President William Ruto’s nominee for Cabinet Secretary of Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes, underwent a rigorous vetting process before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments on Monday. 

Ruku has disclosed a net worth of Sh377 million and outlines his strategic vision for the ministry. Ruku's presentation comes after Justin Muturi's departure from the position. Ruku, currently a Member of Parliament for Mbeere North, detailed his financial holdings, which include Sh40 million in lands and buildings, a Sh60 million family residence, Sh15 million in Sacco savings and investments, Sh250 million in company shares, and Sh12 million in motor vehicles. 

The disclosure is a standard procedure designed to ensure transparency and accountability among cabinet nominees. During the vetting, Ruku emphasized his dedication to transforming the public service sector in line with Article 232 of the Kenyan Constitution, which promotes inclusivity and equal opportunity. 

"The face of Kenya must be seen in all public appointments," Ruku asserted, pledging to ensure diversity within his ministry's appointments.

Addressing the critical issue of unemployment, Ruku proposed a digital system to improve efficiency and transparency in public service. The system would incorporate a timesheet function for civil servants to monitor attendance and productivity. Additionally, it would act as a communication platform to streamline operations across government offices. 

“I will implement a system to link all government institutions, allowing them to operate cohesively and ensure accountability in civil service reporting,” Ruku stated. 

The nominee has also committed to fostering an environment conducive to job creation and business development, aiming to align opportunities with the aspirations of Kenya’s youth and workforce. Ruku’s path to this nomination has been marked by political resilience. After an initial defeat in the 2013 parliamentary elections, he unsuccessfully vied for the Embu Senate seat in 2017. 

His persistence culminated in a victory in the 2022 general election, where he secured the Mbeere North parliamentary seat with 17,069 votes under the Democratic Party ticket. Observers note Ruku's close ties to Ruto, suggesting that he is a key ally whose role will be vital in advancing the administration's policy agenda. Ruku pledges to serve the country with impartiality and integrity.

If approved, Ruku will be tasked with modernizing the sector, addressing employment challenges, and implementing reforms that align with Kenya’s constitutional values.