I Am Not Bitter, Says Former CS Chelugui as He Faults Ruto Government’s Slow Pace

Simon Chelugui faults Ruto government: Former Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui has spoken publicly for the first time since his dismissal from President William Ruto’s Cabinet, saying he harbours no resentment toward the Head of State.

Chelugui Says He Holds No Grudge Against Ruto

Speaking during an interview on TV47 on Monday evening, Chelugui said he respects President Ruto’s decision to drop him from Cabinet in July 2024, shortly after the nationwide youth protests over the Finance Bill 2024.

He clarified that his removal followed intense demonstrations by young Kenyans, which prompted the President to withdraw the controversial bill.

“We had a finance bill that had introduced various instruments for raising revenue. And as you know, we have a big debt to raise. At the right time, we felt the youth had spoken; they did not want taxation on various internet-related activities,” Chelugui said.

The former CS noted that despite his exit, he maintains a cordial relationship with Ruto.

“I occasionally interact and engage with the President, and I was the longest-serving secretary of the Cabinet, having served in both the previous and current administrations,” he added.

Calls Out Slow Progress in Ruto Administration

While expressing respect for Ruto’s leadership, Chelugui criticised the current administration for being slow in addressing key issues affecting citizens.

According to him, the government has become less responsive to public concerns since assuming office, which has led to growing frustration among Kenyans.

“What we missed was going back to the people after the promises to run the course together. There is a difference between a plan and action; the plan was very ambitious,” Chelugui said.

He added that the pace of government programmes has slowed significantly compared to the initial months of the Kenya Kwanza administration.

“At the beginning of this administration, some programmes were being rolled out and there were too many and took fast, but the speed has become normal,” he observed.

Longest-Serving CS in Recent History

Chelugui, who served under both former President Uhuru Kenyatta and President Ruto, said he was content with stepping aside to allow others to serve.

“I think it was also right for me to step back and allow others to serve. But that does not mean I am in the cold,” he remarked.

The former CS remains one of the few officials to have served continuously across two administrations, earning him recognition as one of Kenya’s longest-serving Cabinet Secretaries.