Nairobi, Kenya — July 30, 2024
In a landmark move, President William Ruto has submitted two significant nominations to the National Assembly, proposing Ms. Dorcas Agik Oduor, SC, EBS, OGW, as Attorney General and Ms. Beatrice Askul Moe as Cabinet Secretary for East African Community Affairs (EAC) & Regional Development. These nominations are part of a broader effort to enhance the leadership and efficiency of Kenya’s government.
Dorcas Agik Oduor: A Trailblazer for Attorney General
Ms. Dorcas Agik Oduor’s nomination as Attorney General marks a historic moment for Kenya, as she stands to become the first female to hold this esteemed position. With over thirty years of legal experience in the public sector, Senior Counsel Oduor brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. Her nomination underscores President Ruto’s commitment to advancing gender equality and recognizing the contributions of women in leadership.
Born and raised in Kenya, Dorcas Oduor’s academic and professional journey is a testament to her dedication to the legal field. She earned her Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree in 1990 and completed her postgraduate Diploma from the Kenya School of Law in 1991. Her admission to the bar as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya in 1992 marked the beginning of a distinguished career.
Throughout her career, Ms. Oduor has demonstrated unwavering integrity and professional competence. Her roles have included serving as the Secretary of Public Prosecutions within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), where she has been instrumental in shaping the legal landscape of Kenya. She has also held positions such as Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Head of the Economic, International, and Emerging Crimes Department, Deputy Chief State Counsel, and State Counsel in the Department of Public Prosecution at the then Office of the Attorney General.
Her extensive experience in litigation, legal advisories, and legislative drafting has earned her a reputation as a formidable legal mind. Her contributions to the development of law in Kenya have been significant, and her nomination as Attorney General is a recognition of her tireless efforts and achievements. If approved by the National Assembly, her appointment will not only be a personal milestone but also a significant step forward for women’s representation in the highest echelons of government.
Beatrice Askul Moe: Champion for Regional Development
Ms. Beatrice Askul Moe’s nomination as the Cabinet Secretary for East African Community Affairs (EAC) & Regional Development reflects her deep commitment to community development and social change. A social scientist and consultant, Ms. Moe has a rich background in managing and implementing community-based projects, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya.
Ms. Moe’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Sciences (Social Work) from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), and she is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Governance and Ethics. Her professional journey has been marked by her dedication to improving the lives of marginalized communities through various roles in both governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Her most recent role was as the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Water, Irrigation, Agriculture, and Land Reclamation in Turkana County Government. Her efforts in this capacity have been pivotal in addressing water scarcity and enhancing agricultural productivity in one of Kenya’s most challenging environments. Her leadership and innovative approaches have led to significant improvements in the quality of life for the residents of Turkana.
Ms. Moe’s experience extends beyond Turkana, having served as a Director of the Rift Valley Water Services Board, Chairperson of the Technical Committee of the Rift Valley Water Services Board, Chairperson of the Audit Committee to the Rift Valley Water Services Board, Project Officer for AMREF Kenya Turkana Project, and Relief Officer for the Oxfam Turkana Relief Program. Her diverse roles have equipped her with a deep understanding of the complexities of regional development and the importance of sustainable community engagement.
Her nomination as Cabinet Secretary for EAC and Regional Development is a strategic choice, aimed at leveraging her expertise to foster regional cooperation and development. Her specialized skills in development and management of community affairs, combined with her extensive training in various capacities, make her a valuable asset to the Cabinet.
Strategic Implications of the Nominations
The nominations of Ms. Oduor and Ms. Moe come at a critical time for Kenya, as the nation seeks to strengthen its legal framework and enhance regional development. President Ruto’s decision to nominate these two highly qualified individuals reflects his administration’s commitment to promoting competence, integrity, and diversity within the government.
Ms. Oduor’s potential appointment as Attorney General is particularly significant given her vast legal experience and her pioneering status as the first female nominee for this role. Her appointment would not only bring a wealth of legal expertise to the position but also inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in law and public service.
Similarly, Ms. Moe’s nomination for the role of Cabinet Secretary for EAC and Regional Development underscores the importance of regional cooperation and sustainable development. Her background in social sciences and her extensive experience in managing community projects position her well to drive initiatives that will benefit not only Kenya but also the broader East African Community.
Looking Ahead
As the National Assembly reviews these nominations, the anticipation and support from various sectors of society highlight the significance of these appointments. The approval of Ms. Oduor and Ms. Moe would mark a progressive step forward for Kenya, aligning with global trends towards inclusive governance and recognizing the vital contributions of women in leadership roles.
The nominations of Dorcas Agik Oduor and Beatrice Askul Moe represent a forward-thinking approach by President Ruto, emphasizing the importance of experience, competence, and diversity in government leadership. Their potential appointments signal a commitment to justice, regional development, and the empowerment of women in Kenya. As the nation awaits the National Assembly’s decision, there is a palpable sense of optimism and hope for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
These nominations are more than just appointments; they are a testament to Kenya’s evolving political landscape, one that values merit, integrity, and the invaluable contributions of women in shaping the nation’s future.
