Ruto Reassigns Kello Harsama to Petroleum PS Role in Fresh Government Shake-Up

President William Ruto has reassigned Principal Secretary Kello Harsama to the State Department for Petroleum in a fresh government reshuffle aimed at ensuring continuity in key ministries. The move comes weeks after the resignation of former Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban amid an ongoing fuel importation scandal.

Harsama, who previously served as Principal Secretary for the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development, will now take charge of the petroleum docket with immediate effect. The changes were announced through a statement issued by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei under what was described as “Notification of Presidential Action No. IX of 2026.”

According to the government, the reassignment was made under Article 155(4) of the Constitution and is intended to fill the leadership gap created by Liban’s exit while ensuring smooth administration and coordination of government functions within the affected state departments. Officials said the changes are meant to maintain stability in critical sectors of government.

At the same time, Dr. Caroline Karugu, who currently serves as Principal Secretary for East African Community (EAC) Affairs, has been appointed Acting Principal Secretary for the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development in addition to her current responsibilities. The appointment places her in a dual role as government moves to prevent disruptions in operations following Harsama’s transfer.

The reshuffle follows the resignation of Mohamed Liban, who stepped down from the Petroleum docket in April after investigations into an alleged fuel importation controversy. Liban, alongside former Kenya Pipeline Company Managing Director Joe Sang and former Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority Director General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, came under scrutiny over allegations linked to irregular fuel importation and supply arrangements.

The Petroleum State Department remains one of the most sensitive government dockets, overseeing Kenya’s oil and fuel supply systems, petroleum policies and energy regulation. Harsama now assumes office at a time when the government continues to face public pressure over transparency and accountability in the energy sector.

Following his reassignment, Harsama expressed gratitude to President Ruto for the appointment, pledging to serve diligently in the new position. He stated that he remains committed to professionalism and effective service delivery as he transitions to the energy sector.

Political observers view the latest changes as part of broader efforts by President Ruto to stabilise government departments affected by recent controversies while ensuring uninterrupted service delivery. Attention now shifts to how the new leadership at the Petroleum department will address ongoing concerns in Kenya’s fuel sector.