UP TO THE TASK

William Ruto has been moved to the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, in a cabinet reshuffle.

Dr Sally Koskey takes over the powerful Agriculture Ministry in changes made on Wednesday by President Mwai Kibaki in consultation with Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

A statement from Statehouse said the President made the changes in consultation with the Prime Minister.

But in a swift rejoinder, Ruto said he was up to the task and promised Kenyans that he will deliver as expected.

Speaking to KBC on phone, Ruto said the new appointment gives him a second chance to serve Kenyans even better.

He refuted allegations that the removal from the Ministry of Agriculture was aimed at settling political scores over his stand on the proposed constitution.

Others affected include, Trade Minister Amos Kimunya who now doubles up as the Transport Minister in an acting capacity.

The position fell vacant after Chirau Ali Mwakwere lost his Matuga seat through an election petition in February.

Belgut MP Charles Keter who has been Energy Assistant minister has been dropped and replaced by Kiprono Magerer.

Ruto who is also the deputy ODM leader and Keter have been labelled ODM rebels for differing with their party leader Raila Odinga on various issues including the Constitution and Mau.

Magerer welcomed his new appointment and promised to execute his duties to his best.

Other new Assistant Ministers include Samuel Kazungu Kambi who has been posted to the Medical Services Ministry which had never been filled following the resignation of Garsen MP Danson Mungatana last year.

Wilfred Moriasi Ombui has been named National Heritage Assistant Minister. The post was previoulsy held by Joel Onyancha whose also lost his South Mugirango seat after the High Court nullified his election.

The new changes take effect immediately.

Here is the statement from the Presidential Press Service

Following consultations between His Excellency President Mwai Kibaki and the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, His Excellency the President has made the following appointments and changes in Government.

1. Hon. Dr. Sally Kosgei to be Minister for Agriculture.

2. Hon. William Ruto, EGH, MP to be Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology.

3. Hon. Amos Kimunya, EGH, MP to act as Minister for Transport in addition to his current portfolio.

4. Hon. Samuel Kazungu Kambi, MP to be Assistant Minister, Ministry of Medical Services.

5. Hon. Wilfred Moriasi Ombui, MP to be Assistant Minister, Ministry of State for National Heritage and Culture, Office of the Vice President.

6. Hon. Kiprono Magerer, MP to be Assistant Minster, Ministry of Energy.

These appointments and changes take effect immediately.