By Fridah Mbuvi, June 10, 2026
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has singled out Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome and Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir as the only two ministers in President William Ruto’s Cabinet whom he holds in high regard, offering a rare public commendation in an otherwise sharply critical assessment of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
The outspoken Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) legislator, known for his consistent criticism of the executive, made the remarks during a public address where he acknowledged that while he remains largely dissatisfied with the government’s overall performance, he has observed notable professionalism and competence in the two Cabinet Secretaries.
Sifuna’s comments stood out given his long-standing political posture as one of the administration’s most vocal watchdogs in Parliament. He noted that his assessment was based on direct interactions and parliamentary oversight engagements rather than political alignment.
In his remarks, Sifuna praised Alice Wahome for what he described as a strong command of her docket and technical precision when handling land and housing matters. He said his initial impression of her had been sceptical at the time of her appointment, but that this view changed after observing her performance during parliamentary scrutiny sessions.
“She is very prepared, very factual, and understands her ministry deeply,” he said, adding that her ability to respond clearly to technical and legal questions had set her apart from many of her peers in Cabinet.
Sifuna also commended Davis Chirchir for what he termed as consistent cooperation with oversight institutions and willingness to appear before Senate committees when summoned. He contrasted Chirchir’s approach with what he described as a growing tendency among some senior officials to avoid parliamentary accountability.
According to the Senator, Chirchir has demonstrated a strong institutional respect for the role of the legislature, particularly in addressing policy questions and national infrastructure challenges under his docket. He further noted that the Cabinet Secretary’s responsiveness during his previous tenure in the energy sector had also earned him credibility among lawmakers.
The Senator’s remarks come at a time when tensions between the opposition and the executive remain high over economic policy, governance priorities, and the pace of service delivery. His selective praise, however, underscores a rare bipartisan acknowledgment of individual performance within a deeply polarized political environment.
Sifuna also used the opportunity to caution against what he termed as distraction within government ranks, arguing that some officials were increasingly preoccupied with political survival ahead of the 2027 election cycle rather than focusing on service delivery and accountability.
His comments are likely to stir debate within political circles, given his influential role in the Senate and his reputation for direct and often uncompromising political commentary.
