Breaking The Illusions Between Uhuru And Ruto
In her newly released memoir titled “Breaking the Illusions,” former Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki sheds light on the sensational claims that emerged in 2019 alleging a meeting among Cabinet Secretaries to plot the assassination of then Deputy President William Ruto. Kariuki suggests that these claims were a manifestation of the underlying turf wars between President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy’s camp, reflecting the strained relationship between the two highest offices in the presidency.
Kariuki recounts her astonishment upon receiving a call from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation regarding the alleged plot, deeming it the gravest accusation one could face. She emphasizes her confusion over the allegations and speculates that they were symptomatic of the fractured relationship between the president and his deputy.
The memoir also delves into President Kenyatta’s approach to Cabinet appointments and reshuffles, describing his tendency to make ambiguous phone calls to his inner circle beforehand. Kariuki recalls instances where she received such calls before significant appointments and reshuffles, highlighting the president’s method of gauging opinions and gathering information.
Moreover, Kariuki reveals President Kenyatta’s practice of reaching out to ministers in response to corruption scandals, seeking their perspectives on misconduct claims. She suggests that during her tenure as the Health Minister, certain “cartels” may have provided the president with misinformation about her, leading to his inquiries into her position.
Kariuki acknowledges the challenges faced by Cabinet Secretaries, particularly regarding allegations of misconduct within their ministries, despite their detachment from financial matters. She admits feeling relieved when transferred from the Health ministry to the Water docket following the president’s call.
Additionally, the memoir touches on Kariuki’s intervention to halt a performance by Congolese musician Koffi Olomide in 2016 after an altercation within his troupe. She also humorously shares the nicknames she earned due to her assertive work ethic, including “Thatcher” and “CoB.”
Furthermore, Kariuki reveals that some Members of Parliament approached her to apologize after two unsuccessful impeachment attempts, acknowledging their false accusations.
Overall, Kariuki’s memoir provides insights into the inner workings of Kenyan politics, the dynamics within the presidency, and the personal experiences of a former Cabinet Secretary navigating these challenges.
