"Kipchumba Murkomen: The Rise of a Trusted Power Broker in Ruto’s Government"

In politics, actions speak louder than words. It is not what is said, but what is done that truly counts. One leader who embodies this principle is the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Kipchumba Murkomen, who has steadily risen through the ranks to become one of President William Ruto’s most trusted allies.

CS Kipchumba Murkomen inspects a guard of honor mounted by members of the National police service (Photo courtesy)

Before joining the Executive, Murkomen served as the Senator for Elgeyo Marakwet County, a position he held for three consecutive terms from 2013 to 2022. During his tenure, he was also appointed the Senate Majority Leader, a role he performed with distinction.

Murkomen proved himself to be a formidable political ally to President Ruto. When he was ousted as Senate Majority Leader by the Jubilee Party in 2020, during the political realignments triggered by the "handshake" between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga, Murkomen quickly adapted, taking up the mantle of opposition leadership within the Senate. His resilience and loyalty during that turbulent period cemented his place as a key figure in Ruto’s political circle.

Career in the Cabinet

Since resigning as the Senator for Elgeyo Marakwet in 2022, Murkomen has served in three crucial Cabinet dockets, showcasing the deep trust President Ruto has placed in him.

He was initially appointed as the Cabinet Secretary for Roads, Transport, and Public Works, a position he held until July 2024. During his tenure, he oversaw major infrastructure developments, including the completion of major road projects, railway expansions, and airport upgrades.

In July 2024, Murkomen was transferred to the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports. Though he served there for only six months, he was instrumental in rolling out youth empowerment programs and promoting the creative economy.

Subsequently, Murkomen was appointed as the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration — one of the most powerful and politically sensitive ministries in the government.

Achievements as Interior CS

In his current role at the Interior Ministry, Murkomen has quickly adapted, leveraging the docket's extensive national reach to engage with communities across the country.

One of his notable initiatives is the launch of the 'Jukwaa la Usalama' forums, a new platform aimed at bringing government closer to the people. Through these forums, held in various counties such as Kitui and Makueni, Murkomen meets local leaders and residents to discuss security issues, governance, and development needs affecting their regions.

This grassroots engagement strategy is not only enhancing public trust in the government but is also allowing Murkomen to build networks across the country — connections that could prove politically invaluable in the future.

Murkomen’s steady climb and his ability to deliver in every role assigned to him are a testament to his political acumen and unwavering loyalty to President Ruto’s administration.

CS Murkomen with President William Ruto at a past event. (Photo courtesy)

Political future

Kipchumba Murkomen’s political journey reflects not just loyalty and resilience, but also a deep understanding of governance and public engagement. As he continues to steer one of the most critical ministries, his strategic moves and nationwide outreach signal a leader keenly aware of both his current responsibilities and future political prospects. If his track record is anything to go by, Murkomen’s star in Kenya’s political landscape is still on the rise. He is fit for the Kingship!




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