Moses Kuria Claims Credit for Ruto's 'Broad-Based' Government, Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Role in Including Opposition Figures

Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has taken center stage in a political drama unfolding within Kenya's leadership, claiming credit for the formation of President William Ruto’s 'broad-based' government. Kuria revealed in a recent interview that he had urged President Ruto to integrate opposition figures into the Cabinet long before the nation was rocked by deadly protests led by Gen Z youth.

Kuria's candid admission, made during an appearance on Citizen TV on Monday, August 12, comes amid a wave of speculation and internal power struggles within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). As the ODM grappled with who would secure key Cabinet posts, Kuria’s revelations shed new light on the behind-the-scenes maneuvering within Kenya Kwanza, the ruling coalition.

“For the avoidance of doubt, this issue of inviting the opposition to the government—I can largely claim it to be my idea...It was my idea. Way before Gen Z. I could see some trouble ahead," Kuria stated. "I was discussing with the President, look, we need to reform our politics. And if we have to get out of this, we need to get things out of the box.”

Kuria, who was one of 12 Cabinet Secretaries removed to make room for opposition leaders, disclosed that he had foreseen potential unrest and advised President Ruto to act preemptively by bringing opposition figures into the fold. His comments have added a new layer of intrigue to the recent Cabinet reshuffle, which has been a focal point of political discourse in Kenya.

Pressed for further details, Kuria recounted his efforts to personally lobby senior opposition figures, including former Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho, and ODM veteran Oburu Odinga, to accept Cabinet positions. “I remember having lunch with Oburu Odinga to convince him why they should accept the positions. He asked me, ‘Are you not afraid that you will lose your position?’ To which I responded, ‘So be it. It was for the good of the country,’” Kuria stated.

Kuria’s disclosures have sparked fresh debate over the dynamics within Kenya's political landscape, particularly concerning the integration of opposition figures into the government. As the nation watches these developments, Kuria’s role in shaping the current administration has become a point of both admiration and controversy.