During the burial of his aunt Mary Njeri in Kairi village, Gatundu North, Kiambu County, Cabinet Secretary for Public Service Moses Kuria disclosed a significant realignment of roles within the government, indicating a growing divide between President William Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua.
Kuria revealed that he has been tasked by Ruto to lead reforms in the coffee sub-sector, a responsibility previously held by Gachagua.
The reforms aim to address challenges in key agricultural sectors such as tea, coffee, and dairy, which have struggled with low production and issues related to cartel influence. Kuria, without directly mentioning Gachagua, noted that previous efforts to streamline the sector had faltered, prompting him to approach Ruto and offer his commitment to effectively carry out the responsibilities.
The move underscores a shift in roles within the administration, highlighting tensions and changes in leadership responsibilities under Ruto’s direction.
“Some people were given the coffee sector to man but the role overwhelmed them. I went to the President and asked him to give me the job to streamline the coffee sector. I got the job and I can assure you that I will streamline the sector,” he said.
Kuria went on to reveal that coffee farmers will from next month start receiving their coffee payment directly in their respective bank accounts unlike before when they have been receiving their dues via their cooperative societies.
“Coffee funds will be sent to farmers directly while those which should be channelled to societies will be sent to their accounts,” he added.
Kuria accused Gachagua of being a ’cry-baby’ despite his central role and influence in government and urged him and other leaders to stop misleading Kenyans.
“There are people who live in the kitchen, they’re actually the cooks but they keep crying and telling people of how things are bad. We live because of hope but success is personal. We all depend on our hard work and toil and however much I would love you, success is personal,” he said.
He at the same time called on Kenyans to be patient with the government and urged clerics to be in the forefront of giving hope to the people.
“Let’s be optimistic and people who strengthen each other. The church should be at the front line of giving hope to the people. We live because of hope,” he stated.
The crack between Ruto and Gachagua has continued to widen two years since they assumed their highly-coveted offices, a situation that has also divided their junior politicians.
