Kenya: President Ruto Holds Talks with Uhuru over Concerns over Office and Staff

Nairobi, Kenya – President William Ruto has held talks with former President Uhuru Kenyatta over concerns related to his office and staff. The meeting took place at the State House in Nairobi on Monday, February 6th, 2023. According to a statement from the State House, the two leaders discussed issues pertaining to the transition process and the smooth handover of power. President Ruto expressed concerns over the lack of access to his office and staff, which he said was hindering his ability to effectively execute his duties. President Kenyatta assured President Ruto that the transition process was ongoing and that the challenges he faced were being addressed. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship between the two offices. The meeting reportedly lasted for several hours, and the two leaders agreed to continue working together to ensure a peaceful and orderly transfer of power. It is understood that President Ruto will be provided with full access to his office and staff soon. The meeting was seen as a significant step in resolving the post-election tensions between the two sides. President Ruto and President Kenyatta had been at odds since the announcement of the August 2022 presidential election results, which were disputed by the latter. Following the meeting, President Ruto thanked President Kenyatta for his cooperation and commitment to a smooth transition. He also expressed his optimism that the challenges faced by his administration would be resolved amicably. The outcome of the meeting is expected to alleviate concerns over the post-election transition process in Kenya. It also signals the willingness of the two leaders to work together for the stability and progress of the country.In response to concerns raised by former President Uhuru Kenyatta regarding his office and staff, President William Ruto has established a team to address these issues.In response to concerns raised by former President Uhuru Kenyatta regarding his office and staff, President William Ruto has established a team to address these issues. Speaker of the House of Representatives Hussein Mohamed announced that this action was taken after discussions between Ruto and Kenyatta. The team, headed by Head of Civil Service Felix Koskei, will address the location of Kenyatta’s office and the allocation of relevant staff. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting where President Ruto instructed Koskei to lead the team in reviewing the package of requirements designated for the former president. This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring the smooth transition and support of retired presidents.President William Ruto met with former President Uhuru Kenyatta at his Harambee House office to address concerns raised by Kenyatta over the treatment of his office and staff. Kenyatta reportedly expressed discomfort with the way his retirement benefits, security detail, and office space had been handled since Ruto took office. During the meeting, Ruto assured Kenyatta that he would address the concerns raised and ensure that he was accorded the respect and benefits befitting his status as a former head of state. Ruto acknowledged the importance of maintaining the dignity of former presidents and pledged to work closely with Kenyatta to resolve any outstanding issues. The meeting was described as cordial and constructive, with both leaders expressing their commitment to working together for the benefit of the country. It is expected that a detailed statement will be released by the Presidential Press Service in due course.