Ruto’s Confidence in Attorney General Wanes
Speaking during a Citizen TV interview on Tuesday, Onyonka claimed the president no longer trusts those advising him on legal matters.
President William Ruto.Phto/Reuters.
By Juliet Jerotich
President William Ruto’s decision to transfer the custody of the Public Seal from the Attorney General’s Office to the Head of Public Service (HOPS) has sparked political backlash and questions over trust within his administration.
Senator Onyonka Speaks Out
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has publicly stated that this move clearly shows that President Ruto has lost faith in the Attorney General, Dorcas Oduor.
Speaking during a Citizen TV interview on Tuesday, Onyonka claimed the president no longer trusts those advising him on legal matters.
“It’s not about who holds the title of Attorney General,” said Onyonka. “It shows the president is uncomfortable entrusting critical national symbols to his legal advisers.”
He added that such a move could prompt the Attorney General to vacate office, as her constitutional mandate appears to be under threat.
Public Seal Transfer Sparks Debate
The controversy stems from a clause in the National Government Administration Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which proposed changes to the Office of the Attorney General Act, 2012.
The bill suggested moving the custody of the national Public Seal, recognised in the Second Schedule of the Constitution, to the HOPS.
Critics argue the shift undermines the Attorney General’s authority. Political observers view it as a direct attempt to limit the AG’s influence over critical government documentation and legal oversight.
Government Defends and Backtracks
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura initially defended the transition, insisting that it was conducted legally and aligned with national values. However, he later reversed his position.
On May 22, Mwaura clarified that Parliament had deleted the proposed amendment, and as a result, the Public Seal would remain under the Attorney General’s custody.
Former AG Weighs In
Former Attorney General Justin Muturi also weighed in on the matter. He noted that the proposed changes were likely aimed at avoiding legal scrutiny and oversight from the AG’s office.
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