Amos Khaemba, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over four years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Nairobi - President William Ruto has appointed ODM leader Raila Odinga's close relative to a plum government job.

The latest beneficiary of the broad-based government is Jaoko Oburu Odinga, a nephew of the former prime minister.

In a tweet on Tuesday, April 22, Jaoko disclosed that Ruto had appointed him the special advisor for economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods in the president's office.

Jaoko, who is the son of Siaya senator Oburu Oginga, thanked Ruto for giving him a chance to serve Kenyans.

"I wish to take this opportunity to give special thanks to H.E President William Samoei Ruto for granting me an opportunity to serve Kenyans by appointing me to serve in the capacity of Special Advisor, Economic Empowerment, and Sustainable Livelihoods. Thank you, Your Excellency," Jaoko said.

While suggesting Raila might have influenced his appointment, Jaoko thanked the ODM party leader for showing confidence in him.

"Thanks also go to the Right Honourable Prime Minister, Hon. Raila Odinga, for showing his faith in me and for creating a conducive environment for Kenyans from all walks of life to work together for our beloved country, Kenya, in nation building. Thank you, Sir. God bless Kenya."

While some Kenyans congratulated Jaoko for his new assignment, others harshly criticised the appointment.

Edwin H. Dande:

"This is the kind of appointment it would have been emotionally intelligent to be quiet about and let others announce and speak about it?"

@_James041:

"It's not William Ruto. It's the Gen Zs who sacrificed their lives fighting for a better country only for your opportunistic uncle to take advantage of our sweat for his own benefits. Eat while it's still good because the storm is coming.

@LevyOmambia:

"Of course he is your uncle. Nepotism must have its way."

@APlusContent:

"Umesema, "Kenyans from all walks of life?" You're right! Genius. What's your family, again? Ama you represent kings? Who is here for paupers?"

Oduor Puncture:

"Congratulations! You have worked very hard, gained the requisite experience to deserve such an appointment. Your excellent performance in the public service/private sector speaks for itself. I`m sure you are the right candidate to advise William Ruto on poverty eradication."

As reported earlier, Raila's close associates were recently appointed as principal secretaries.

On Thursday, March 20, the president made several changes in government, including appointments in select state departments.

A majority of commenters suggested that Raila influenced the appointments, given that some of his allies were named as PSs.

Nairobi politician, Millicent Omanga, lauded Raila for ensuring there is regional and gender balancing.

Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke