Why MPs Rejected Stella Soi’s Nomination As Gender CS

On Wednesday, the National Assembly Committee on Appointments rejected Stella Soi Langat’s nomination as Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, Arts, and Heritage.

This decision came after she failed to show an “adequate understanding” of the gender docket during the vetting process.

Reason for Stella Soi’s Rejection:

First, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa explained that Soi did not demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the docket she was nominated for.

“Stella Soi Langat is a career civil servant with extensive experience in public service, but she did not demonstrate an adequate understanding of the gender docket to which she has been nominated.“ He said.

Additionally, he noted that she failed to show adequate knowledge of the ministry’s topical, administrative, and technical issues.

Next, the vetting committee pointed out that Soi’s public service experience involved many frequent job transitions, none of which were leadership roles.

The report stated, “All the six different postings that the nominee has held do not require any long-term strategic planning. As a result, she has not become grounded in any specific leadership role in the public service.”

Inadequate Response

Moreover, the committee observed that some of Soi’s responses during vetting were not gender-sensitive, as required for the position. They also noted that she fumbled in her responses.

“The nominee is unsuitable for the position to which she was nominated, as she was unable to respond in a satisfactory manner to the queries raised during the approval hearing relating to gender, heritage, and culture,” Ichung’wa stated.

Furthermore, the committee emphasized the strategic importance of the Ministry of Gender, Culture, Arts, and Heritage. They noted that this ministry oversees critical national policies and services and requires leadership with a strong strategic vision, cultural sensitivity, and a deep understanding of policy management.

As a result of Soi’s rejection, President Ruto will need to submit another nominee to the National Assembly for vetting.

Soi was among 20 Cabinet Secretary nominees vetted last week, and all other 19 nominees were found suitable for appointment. Those approved include Aden Duale (environment), Kithure Kindiki (interior), Alice Wahome (land), Alfred Mutua (labor), Salim Mvurya (trade), Justin Muturi (public service), Soipan Tuya (defense), Kipchumba Murkomen (sports), Davis Chirchir (roads and transport), Rebecca Miano (wildlife and tourism), Debra Mulongo Barasa (health), and Julius Migosi Ogamba (education).

While the majority of the Cabinet Secretary nominees passed the vetting process, Stella Soi Langat’s nomination was rejected due to her insufficient understanding of the gender docket and her lack of strategic leadership experience. Now, the focus shifts to President Ruto’s next nominee for this critical position.