Arise Media 
BY MWANIKI MUGO
Two Cabinet Secretary nominees, Hon. Geoffrey K. Ruku and Ms. Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, faced intense scrutiny on Monday during vetting sessions by the National Assembly’s Committee on Appointments, chaired by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
Hon. Ruku, the MP for Mbeere North, is President William Ruto’s nominee for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes. Ms. Cheptumo has been nominated to lead the Ministry of Gender, Culture, The Arts, and Heritage.
Lawmakers grilled the nominees on their qualifications, integrity, and plans to address key national concerns.
“If approved, I will serve all Kenyans with fairness and efficiency,” said Ruku, pledging to curb corruption, digitalize public service operations, and eliminate ghost workers.
He proposed reforms to the Corruption and Economic Crimes Act and advocated for a unified digital tracking system to improve accountability.
Ruku also raised concerns over bribery within the Teachers Service Commission, which he claimed has hindered the promotions of deserving educators.
Cheptumo emphasized her dedication to gender equality and cultural preservation, vowing to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful practices like FGM and early marriages.
“I want GBV education in schools and more survivor support systems,” she said, proposing that gender desks be moved to hospitals for more compassionate care.
Cheptumo also called for the repatriation of cultural artifacts from foreign museums and pledged to support local artists through grassroots mentorship and fair compensation.
Both nominees responded to questions on the Huduma Centres’ efficiency, bloated wage bills, and citizen data protection.
Ruku promised to expand digital services, while Cheptumo pushed for collaboration with county governments to promote Kenya’s cultural identity.
The committee is expected to table a report on their suitability before the House for final approval.
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