Recent events in Kenyan politics have highlighted concerns about government stability, policy implementation, and the safety of political figures. Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has publicly urged President William Ruto to minimise Cabinet reshuffles to ensure continuity in critical national programmes like Universal Health Coverage (UHC). At the same time, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has expressed fears for his safety, alleging that he is being targeted due to his criticism of the current administration. Meanwhile, President Ruto has called on football officials to elevate Kenyan football to international standards, setting ambitious goals for the sport's future.

Governor Kahiga's plea comes amid frequent Cabinet changes that he believes disrupt the progress of essential projects. Speaking at a high-level consultative meeting with Council of Governors (CoG) chair Ahmed Abdullahi, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, and other stakeholders, Kahiga stressed the importance of allowing ministers to settle into their roles to effectively implement programmes like UHC. He warned that constant reshuffling could destabilise coordination between national and county governments, hindering service delivery to citizens.

Duale responded to these concerns by outlining ongoing efforts to reform and strengthen the healthcare sector. He highlighted the digitisation of health services across all counties, the absorption of healthcare workers supporting the UHC agenda, and addressing the remuneration of Community Health Promoters (CHPs). Duale also vowed to root out fraud and corruption in medical facilities, emphasising the government's commitment to creating a transparent and accountable health system.

However, President Ruto's administration has faced criticism for its frequent Cabinet reshuffles. In July 2024, all Cabinet secretaries were dismissed, followed by subsequent reshuffles in December 2024 and March 2025. These changes have raised concerns about the stability and consistency of government policies and programmes.

Adding to the political tensions, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has expressed fears for his safety, claiming that individuals connected to President Ruto have been trailing him. Natembeya, a vocal critic of the government, stated that he would not be intimidated into silence and would continue to speak out against the administration's shortcomings. He referenced his past experience as Rift Valley regional commissioner, where he openly expressed his views without harassment from then-President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Natembeya has also criticised President Ruto's frequent travels, questioning whether he has enough time to focus on policy implementation. He condemned a promise made by Ruto to purchase a chapati-making machine for students in Nairobi, calling it a misplaced priority and urging the president to focus on creating sustainable employment opportunities for the youth.

In other news, President Ruto has challenged Kenyan football officials to raise the sport's profile to international standards. Speaking at State House, Nairobi, during the flagging off of the Harambee Stars team heading to the Under-20 African Cup of Nations tournament in Egypt, Ruto called on football officials to address managerial issues that have plagued the sport for years. He expressed confidence in the talent of Kenyan players and urged the team to strive for international success.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya echoed Ruto's optimism, expressing confidence that the Kenyan team would perform well in the tournament. Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohamed assured of the team's preparedness and highlighted the ongoing efforts to revive football in the country, including the expansion of sports facilities.

These developments highlight the challenges and opportunities facing Kenya as it strives to achieve its development goals while navigating political complexities and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.