President William Ruto has appointed renowned legal scholar Prof Makau Mutua as the Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs in the Executive Office of the President. The appointment, announced on Tuesday, has sparked significant interest across Kenya’s political and legal circles, with many interpreting it as a strategic move to bolster the administration’s commitment to constitutionalism and the rule of law.
Prof Mutua, a distinguished academic with decades of experience in legal theory, constitutional law, and human rights, is expected to provide high-level counsel on governance, legislative frameworks, and policy alignment with Kenya’s 2010 Constitution. His role will include advising on judicial reforms, constitutional implementation, and legislative affairs that impact the executive branch.
The appointment marks a notable shift, given Prof Mutua’s past critical stance toward the Kenya Kwanza administration. Analysts suggest the move signals President Ruto’s intention to broaden his advisory team with voices that bring independent thinking and strong legal grounding.
Reactions to the appointment have been mixed. Supporters see it as a bold step that could anchor the government’s policy agenda within a stronger constitutional framework. Critics, however, question whether Prof Mutua’s influence will be substantive or symbolic, citing the challenges of navigating entrenched political interests.
Nonetheless, Prof Mutua’s entry into the Executive Office is seen by many as an opportunity to strengthen constitutional adherence and institutional integrity in government decision-making.
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