Parliamentary report: Why Stella Soi Longyate was rejected as Minister for Gender Affairs

The Parliamentary Appointments Committee has detailed the reasons for rejecting Stella Soi Lang’at, one of the 20 candidates selected by President William Ruto for the position of Cabinet Secretary.

In a report adopted in plenary session, the committee explained its decision to reject Soi Lang’at’s nomination as minister of gender, culture, arts and heritage. The committee found that Lang’at had failed to prove to lawmakers that she was suitable for the position.

The committee criticised Langat for not having sufficient knowledge of key areas related to the portfolio, including thematic, administrative and technical issues.

The committee, led by Speaker Moses Wetangula, stressed that Langate had not adequately responded to questions about the ministry she was nominated to lead.

“Due to an inability to satisfactorily answer questions regarding gender, heritage and culture, the nominee is unsuitable for the position.” The lawmakers pointed out in the report.

Lawmakers stressed the strategic importance of the Ministry of Gender, Culture, Arts and Heritage, which oversees key national policies and services. They argued that the ministry needed a leader with a strong strategic vision, cultural sensitivity and a deep understanding of policy management — traits they said Lang’at lacked.

The committee stressed that the ministry must be led by an effective communicator, innovative and committed to advancing cultural heritage and gender equality.

“The nominee has failed to demonstrate those qualities to the committee’s satisfaction.” The lawmakers said.

MPs also pointed out that Langa had changed jobs frequently during his nearly 30 years in public service.

“The six different positions she held did not require long-term strategic planning. As a result, she did not have a strong foundation in any specific leadership role in public service.” The committee commented.

President William Ruto is expected to nominate new candidates. Meanwhile, 19 parliament-approved Cabinet Secretary nominees were sworn in on Thursday morning after being appointed by the president on Wednesday.