Kabogo Denies Uhuru’s Involvement in His Cabinet Appointment

ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has refuted claims linking retired President Uhuru Kenyatta to his appointment in President William Ruto’s Cabinet.

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Kabogo dismissed speculations suggesting his nomination was influenced by Uhuru following a meeting with President Ruto in December 2023.

“Kenya is a vibrant nation with rumours and things like that. People just make up things. It came just after the visit of the President to Ichaweri, but I can tell you for free, I cannot speak for Mutahi Kagwe or Lee Kinyanjui, but I can speak for myself. I’m sure it had nothing to do with that visit,” Kabogo clarified.

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Kabogo revealed that prior to his appointment, he received a brief phone call from President Ruto hinting at a potential role in his administration. However, the President did not disclose the specific position.

“The former President did not call me; I haven’t spoken to him in quite a while. The only call I got the previous day was from the President, and he said, ‘William, I’m looking at things, and I think there’s something I’m working on.’ He didn’t say anything else, and the next thing I saw it was on the bulletin,” Kabogo stated.

The CS emphasized that his appointment was a surprise and denied any prior discussions with the former Head of State. “I have nothing to gain or lose in terms of telling the truth. That is how it came to me. The conversation with the President was less than a minute, and he said he’d call again, which he didn’t.”

Despite the unexpected nature of the appointment, Kabogo expressed confidence in his ability to lead in the ICT and Digital Economy docket.

“It surprises me as it surprises you. I am more than ready for this role. My track record is clear that I can serve. I am learning the ropes quickly. The job is quite a task, but I am up to it,” he said.

Kabogo now looks forward to steering the ministry and providing effective leadership in advancing Kenya’s digital economy.