Joseph Tiampati, a mathematician and a loser in the Narok County gubernatorial race, has been nominated as Kenya’s Ministry of ICT principal secretary.
The quiet and little known cabinet secretary is a graduate from the University of Nairobi, with a bachelor’s degree in science (mathematics), and of the Maastricht University.
Previously he a general manager at the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and head of credit at Kenya Commercial Bank until 2010, after a 25 year stay at the financial institution.
Many will be sceptical of his capability in the ICT sector given his lack of experience in the industry.
One point of controversy may prove to be his role in the March general election and questions could arise as to whether he is being rewarded for political ties.
In his speech, President Uhuru Kenyatta told the 25 new secretaries to promote harmony in the cabinet and team up in the development of the country.
“I am sure we will be able to work together to transform this great country together,” he said.
Tiampati replaces Dr Bitange Ndemo, a celebrated principal secretary who has been largely credited for the advances in the ICT sector alongside outgoing Kenya ICT board chief executive officer (CEO) Paul Kukubo, who is heading to the East African Commodities Exchange.
The full list will now proceed to parliament for vetting.
