OPINION: Murkomen's God of second chances is powerful, he should now thrive!

Article by; Alfred Koech Sergent

When news of cabinet secretaries being sent home by the head of state hit the headlines, a section of Kenyans went to the streets in celebration. 

One of the reasons why Kenyans rejoiced is because they believed that the President would not re-appoint the sacked CSs, however, recent events have proved otherwise.

Youth affairs, creative economy and sports nominee Kipchumba Murkomen. He initially served as CS Roads

One such lucky guy is the nominee for Youth affairs, creative economy and sports, Kipchumba Murkomen, who previously served as the cabinet secretary for Roads. 

Murkomen is one misunderstood fellow. When he went to a popular YouTube show hosted by Obina, he further stirred the waters by stating that he has an expensive watch worth Ksh. 900,000/=. I mean, who doesn't love the finest things in life? Don't you?

Second chance

The incoming CS is lucky, in that the gods conspired to give him a second chance. The docket he has been nominated to is not as lucrative as the one he was previously in, however, it gives him a chance to interact with the youth, who as it stands, will play a critical role in the 2027 polls as evidenced by the demos spearheaded by "gen Z" which resulted in the sacking of Murkomen and his counterparts in cabinet.

There are some issues that he needs to address as soon as parliament approves his name early next month. Top on the list is the actualization of Facebook monetization that had been promised by the president which is already due by over a month. 

Facebook monetization might seem as a small matter but it would really be a great deal for most of the young men and women who feature in his creatives docket. This will create a conducive environment for the young to thrive and would create employment to a number of young Kenyans.

The other issue that needs his immediate intervention is completion of various stadia that have stalled due to lack of funds and possible misappropriation of already budgeted funds, an example being the Kipchoge Keino stadium in Nandi. 

Revamping of the sports agenda is also an issue that he needs addressed as soon as he steps in office. With the Olympics being top of the agenda, it is paramount that our athletes be treated in the manner they deserve, being our biggest brand ambassadors as team Kenya.

Politics 

Murkomen now becomes the highest ranking, senior politician from the greater Rift Valley in Cabinet. Having been in elective politics since 2013, he has all the accolades bestowed to a politician. He served as the senate majority leader in 2017 before he was dramatically ousted after the 2018 handshake. 

He successfully vied for a third term in 2022 before being nominated to cabinet. 

Murkomen now has the chance to solidify his authority as the man who might take over from President Ruto when he retires after his two terms allowed by the constitution. He has the chance to interact with Kenyans from all walks of life, from every inch of the country. 

Will he use this God given opportunity to deliver and reap his base? Time will tell.

Congratulations Murkomen!