The Executive Office of the President in Kenya has published a formal notice distancing itself from Eliel Cheruiyot Kipsang, who was found to be presenting himself as Director of Strategy and Planning at State House, a title the office says does not exist. The notice, signed by Comptroller of State House Katoo Ole Metito, was published in local dailies on October 1, 2026.
According to the notice, Kipsang has no authority to act, transact, make representations, receive money, or enter into any commitment on behalf of the Executive Office of the President or the Office of the First Lady. The public was warned that any action, representation, or transaction undertaken by Kipsang shall be deemed unauthorised.
A spot check by local media revealed that Kipsang identifies himself online as "Director of Strategy and Planning State House", a title directly contradicted by the official disclaimer. Further enquiries established that Kipsang is an aspiring politician who is currently organising a campaign for the Turbo Constituency parliamentary seat ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The notice stopped short of accusing Kipsang of a criminal offence but made clear that any business conducted under the cover of either office would carry no official backing. State House has urged members of the public to exercise caution and steer clear of any transactions or representations made in the name of the Executive Office of the President or the First Lady by individuals who lack official authorisation.
This warning arrives against the backdrop of a series of impersonation incidents involving high-profile government offices in Kenya. In July 2026, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations announced the arrest of a suspect accused of collecting more than KSh 8.6 million from job seekers by claiming he could secure positions in the Kenya Defence Forces, the National Police Service, and the Public Service Commission through government connections.
Earlier, in January 2026, a Nairobi court heard a case against a man accused of posing as Head of Public Service Felix Koskei and demanding KSh 10 million from a senior government engineer. These cases highlight the growing concern over impersonation and the need for vigilance among Kenyans when dealing with individuals claiming to represent government offices.
The Executive Office of the President has made it clear that it will not be responsible or held liable for any unauthorised actions, representations, or transactions undertaken by Kipsang or similar individuals. Kenyans are advised to verify the authenticity of individuals claiming to represent government offices before engaging in any transactions or dealings with them.
Key points
- State House has disowned Eliel Cheruiyot Kipsang, who claimed to be acting on behalf of President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel.
- Kipsang has no authority to act, transact, make representations, receive money, or enter into any commitment on behalf of the Executive Office of the President or the Office of the First Lady.
- The warning is part of a broader effort to curb impersonation cases targeting government offices across Kenya.
