President Ruto Appoints New CEOs to Lead Five State Agencies in Kenya

President William Ruto has announced the appointment of new chief executives for five state agencies in Kenya. The appointments include Lydia Sitienei Chelagat as the Data Commissioner, Waweru Karanja as the chief executive of the Privatisation Authority, and Peninah Wangare Wahome as the permanent CEO of the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya. These appointments were made following recommendations from the Public Service Commission and the president's constitutional prerogative.

Lydia Sitienei Chelagat, the new Data Commissioner, previously served as Director of Legal Services and Corporation Secretary at the Communications Authority of Kenya. She will replace Immaculate Kassait, whose name is now before the National Assembly for confirmation. Chelagat's appointment brings new leadership to the Data Commission, which plays a critical role in managing and regulating data in Kenya.

Waweru Karanja takes over as chief executive of the Privatisation Authority from Dr Janerose Omondi, who had been acting in the role since June 2025. Dr Omondi had completed her term as transactions manager and will now serve as acting CEO of the Kenya National Entrepreneurs Savings Trust. In her new role, she will continue to oversee privatisation transactions.

Peninah Wangare Wahome has been confirmed as the permanent CEO of the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya, a position she had been filling in an acting capacity. Her confirmation brings stability to the agency, which is responsible for promoting and enforcing anti-doping regulations in Kenya. Wahome's experience and expertise will be crucial in this role.

John Washington Agutu has been appointed as acting CEO of the National Housing Corporation, taking over from his previous role as General Manager for Estates. Agutu has 24 years of experience in estate management and valuation, making him well-suited for his new role. His appointment is pending further confirmation.

Wakhungu Patrick Murunga has been named CEO of the Regional Centre on Groundwater Resources Education, Training and Research in Eastern Africa. This centre plays a vital role in promoting groundwater management and research in the region. Murunga's appointment brings new leadership to the centre, which will help drive its mission forward.

The appointments of the new CEOs aim to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the state agencies. Only two of the appointees, John Washington Agutu and Janerose Omondi, will serve in acting capacities pending further confirmation. The other appointees have been confirmed in their respective roles, bringing stability and continuity to the agencies.

Key points

• President Ruto has appointed new CEOs for five state agencies in Kenya, including the Data Commission, Privatisation Authority, and Anti-Doping Agency.
• The appointments aim to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the agencies.
• Two of the appointees will serve in acting capacities pending further confirmation.