Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has emphasized the need for the government to reshuffle the Principal Secretaries to promote equity and address ethnic dominance in public service.
Kaluma’s remarks come months after President William Ruto’s cabinet reshuffle, which followed widespread anti-government protests.
He expressed concerns over the disproportionate representation of certain ethnic groups among the Principal Secretaries and in parastatals.
“We cannot have a situation where out of about 50 Principal Secretaries, a single ethnic community holds 16 positions while others have none. This creates a perception of inequity among Kenyans,” he stated.
He also argued for fair representation, saying, “All communities in Kenya should receive their rightful share of public service appointments. The position of Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of the national government should be held by a Luo, as they are staunch defenders of human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
Kaluma’s tweet on the matter sparked criticism, with some followers questioning his stance on ethnicity and comparing it to previous calls for ethnic favouritism made by former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua.
In a radio interview toady he defended his position, asserting that the constitution allows for advocacy on behalf of specific communities. “Our constitution entitles all ethnic communities to integration in government, and it permits us to discuss the allocation of resources based on ethnicity,” he clarified.
