Ndindi Nyoro Now Confirms Why President Ruto Wants CAS Positions
Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro has provided an explanation for President William Ruto’s advocacy for the constitutional embedding of Chief Administrative Secretaries (CASs).
Nyoro, addressing the matter on Thursday, asserted that the inclusion of CAS positions in the constitution is intended to enhance the effectiveness of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
As per the UDA MP, Ruto believes that CASs should be responsible for defining government priorities and facilitating the implementation of critical government programs.
Nyoro argued that certain Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) and their Principal Secretaries are currently overloaded with responsibilities, including responding to parliamentary inquiries, addressing the concerns of Kenyans, and advocating for the government’s agenda.
“From where I sit, I have always held consistently that the President was right in terms of having assistants to our cabinet secretaries. Having CASs was basically to do some of the work CSs actually do,” Nyoro stated.
Regarding salaries, Nyoro affirmed that the Kenya Kwanza administration could easily cover the benefits of CASs without imposing a burden on taxpayers.
These comments were made in response to National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah’s proposal to amend the National Government Coordination Act, 2013, aiming to reinstate CAS positions by making amendments to four acts.
According to the proposed bill, eligibility for a CAS appointment includes possessing a bachelor’s degree, experience in public service, and meeting the requirements outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
Disqualifying factors encompass a criminal conviction for six months without the possibility of a fine, bankruptcy, holding a position in a political party, being a member of parliament or a public or state officer, and impeachment.
The responsibilities of CASs, as outlined in the proposal, include handling matters within their portfolio, collaborating with Parliament and county governments, ensuring coordination between ministries and sectors, representing the Cabinet Secretary when necessary, and fulfilling other duties as assigned by the Attorney General or Cabinet Secretary.