Critics Slam Hanna Wendot’s Appointment as Gender CS

The recent approval of Hanna Wendot as the Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage has ignited a wave of criticism from a portion of the Kenyan populace including influential organisations. This group of people is questioning her suitability for this pivotal role, which is crucial in addressing issues such as femicide.

On April 15, 2025, the National Assembly approved Wendot’s nomination, put forth by President William Ruto. Critics argue that her elevation to this office is less about her qualifications and more about her status as the widow of a prominent politician.

The Women in Social Justice Centers Committee has expressed grave concerns over her apparent lack of knowledge regarding femicide.

According to the Committee, her appointment undermines the efforts of survivors, families, and advocates who continue to demand justice and accountability, saying that they are holding Parliament accountable for neglecting its responsibility to ensure competent and compassionate leadership in the Ministry.

During her vetting process, Wendot made controversial remarks suggesting that victims of femicide are primarily women who are ‘looking for money.’

This statement has drawn sharp rebuke from advocates who see it as a profound misunderstanding of the complexities surrounding gender-based violence.

@kelvin_mungai: “In Kenya, being a spouse of a leader automatically qualifies you for government appointments.”

@WomenHRDs stated, “We are deeply saddened by the approval of Hanna Wendot as Cabinet Secretary for Gender. Her glaring lack of understanding and urgency on the ongoing femicide crisis, as revealed during her vetting, is alarming.”

The National Assembly also confirmed Geoffrey Ruku as the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes.

Ruku, previously the Member of Parliament for Mbeere North, replaces Justin Muturi, who was relieved of his duties, the week ending April 12, 2025. Additionally, Carren Achieng Ageng’o, Fikirini Jacobs, and Ahmed Abdisalan Ibrahim have been appointed as Principal Secretaries in various departments.

In response to her appointment, Wendot stated, “Ready to serve my country, Kenya.”

The new CS has apologised for the statement made earlier, saying, "I sincerely apologise for this statement. I do not hold the belief that any woman (or other human being) deserves to be killed under any circumstances. While I intended to bring out some of the economic challenges that many women face, I improperly related two separate issues."