Kenya’s Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has said cabinet secretaries must act politically because they are not civil servants. He made the comments in a social media post, noting that his appointment came through politics and his exit will too.
Mbadi stressed that his role requires political actions to match how he got the job. The statement has sparked talk about the line between politics and public service in Kenya’s government.
Mbadi posted the words on Facebook. “Cabinet Secretaries are not civil servants. “I was appointed politically, I will leave the office politically, and therefore I must act politically,” CS Mbadi wrote. The post came amid questions about how CSs handle their duties.
Many see them as political appointees who serve at the president’s pleasure. Mbadi’s view lines up with that. He started in opposition as an MP for Mbita with ODM. Ruto brought him into the cabinet in 2024 as part of a broad government deal.
The CS has spoken on this before. In interviews, he said his shift from critiquing the government to running the Treasury changed his approach. He now focuses on managing funds responsibly while pushing political goals.
Mbadi has defended moves like the number of presidential advisors. He said the constitution sets no cap on them, only on CSs. That shows his take on how politics shapes roles.
Critics say CSs should stay neutral like civil servants. The law sees them as part of the executive, accountable to the president. They can be fired anytime. Civil servants follow rules for neutrality. Mbadi’s words highlight the difference. He acts as a political figure in cabinet meetings and public events.
Mbadi has handled tough issues since taking office. He defended the National Government Constituencies Development Fund. He said it needs to stay in the constitution for community help.
He also pushed back on claims of heavy spending on public servants’ pay. These stands show his political side in economic debates.
President Ruto picked Mbadi from ODM to build unity after protests. Mbadi’s background as an opposition voice adds weight to his words. He knows both sides. His statement could signal more open political moves from CSs.
Public reaction varies. Some agree CSs serve political ends. Others worry it blurs lines and hurts impartial service. Online posts debate if this helps or harms governance. One user said CSs need to focus on work, not politics. Another backed Mbadi for honesty.
Kenya’s cabinet has faced calls for accountability. Scandals and policy fights are often tied to politics. Mbadi’s view fits that reality. He appeared before parliament committees on topics like Safaricom shares and budget plans. There he defended government steps with a mix of facts and political points.
Ruto has differed with Mbadi at times. On free education funding, the president said money is there despite Mbadi’s cautions. That shows CSs can speak politically but follow the boss.
Mbadi’s role in fiscal planning puts him in the spotlight. He revealed shifts in budget strategy. His words on acting politically could explain bold choices ahead.
This statement reminds Kenyans of the cabinet’s nature. Appointed by the president, CSs serve his agenda. Neutrality takes a back seat. Mbadi’s honesty sparks needed debate on the system.
