Susan Nakhumicha has been nominated as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat following her dismissal as Health Cabinet Secretary. President William Ruto announced this appointment during a cabinet reshuffle responding to public protests. Nakhumicha expressed the emotional challenges of her transition and recognized her failure to address key issues during her tenure.
Former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha has been appointed as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat following her dismissal from office amid a turbulent tenure marked by public protests. President William Ruto made this nomination as part of a cabinet reshuffle, replacing Grace Okara, who held the position for only seven months. This new role signifies a fresh chapter for Nakhumicha following her abrupt removal from the health ministry on July 11, 2024.
President Ruto indicated that the nomination was made in accordance with Article 132 (2) (e) of the Constitution, announcing Nakhumicha’s new position alongside other diplomatic appointments. Her removal was part of a broader move to address public dissatisfaction during the Gen Z protests, which saw widespread demonstrations against governmental policies. Only a select few, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, were retained in their positions following the reshuffle.
After her dismissal, Nakhumicha expressed the difficulty of transitioning back to civilian life after holding a prominent government role. She articulated the emotional toll of losing her position, calling on Bishop Jackson Ole Sapit for prayers during her challenging period. “You sleep as a CS, and when you wake up, you are not one… It is not easy, having been a minister, and then suddenly, you are just Nakhumicha,” she stated, underscoring the dramatic shift in her circumstances.
Reflecting on her tenure, Nakhumicha acknowledged that her greatest regret was her failure to resolve the persistent doctors’ strikes that occurred during her time as Health CS. Despite the challenges she faced, she remains optimistic about her future and expressed gratitude for the support she has received during her transition.
In conclusion, Susan Nakhumicha’s appointment as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UN-Habitat represents a significant shift following her tumultuous removal from the health ministry. Her experience there, particularly the challenges related to unresolved doctors’ strikes, has influenced her perspective on governance. As she enters this new diplomatic role, her journey reflects the complexities of political transitions within the Kenyan government under President Ruto’s administration.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
