'It follows you to your grave': Ndung'u accuses Ruto of overrunning state institutions

Former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung'u has accused President William Ruto of overrunning state institutions, claiming that fear of long-term repercussions compels officials to comply with presidential directives. Speaking during a discussion in Sweden, where he earned a doctorate in economics from the University of Gothenburg, Ndung'u stated that while independent institutions technically exist, their autonomy is eroded when leaders attempt to dominate them. He emphasized that the current president exerts influence over these bodies, forcing individuals within them to conform due to the potential consequences of defiance. Ndung'u recounted his experience during his tenure at the National Treasury, stating that he refused to engage in deals despite pressure from others. He warned that compromising public office could result in lifelong consequences. “I refuse to do deals in the Ministry of Finance,” he said. “I can’t do deals. I know, it follows you to your grave.” His remarks highlight concerns about the lasting impact of institutional compromises, suggesting that such actions persist beyond the tenure of any particular political regime. Ndung'u explained that the effects of institutional compromise do not dissipate with changing administrations. He referenced colleagues who had been implicated in past controversies, noting that even upon their deaths, the repercussions continued. Some cases involving his associates, he claimed, remained unresolved due to the gravity of the consequences associated with them. This perspective underscores a broader concern about the integrity of state institutions under current leadership. Ndung'u’s criticisms align with those previously voiced by former Attorney General Justin Muturi, who has accused Ruto of meddling with governance structures. Muturi pointed out that only certain entities, such as the Office of the Auditor General, the Office of the Controller of Budget, and largely the Judiciary, have managed to remain relatively free from political interference. These observations reflect ongoing tensions between the executive branch and other branches of government. The friction between the Executive and the Judiciary has intensified recently, particularly regarding court decisions that have either blocked or delayed the implementation of specific government policies. Additionally, the administration has drawn criticism from both legal organizations and opposition figures concerning its approach to the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). These issues contribute to a growing perception of instability within Kenya’s governance framework. Ndung'u held several key positions prior to his appointment as Treasury Cabinet Secretary. He served as Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya from March 2007 to March 2015 before being appointed by Ruto in September 2022. However, the president relieved him of his Cabinet duties in July 2024, following the dissolution of most of his ministers amid widespread anti-government protests. His departure marked a significant shift in the administration’s structure and signaled heightened scrutiny of its operations. As discussions around governance continue, the implications of Ndung'u’s statements extend beyond personal grievances, touching on systemic challenges facing Kenya’s institutions. The interplay between individual accountability and institutional integrity remains a critical issue, influencing perceptions of stability and legitimacy within the country’s political landscape.