Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku is causing a stir online after kicking off his term with early morning, unannounced visits to public offices.
The move has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among Kenyans on social media.
The CS, in what seems to be a show of dedication to revamping public service delivery, has been making impromptu stopovers at various service centers.
But instead of applause, many netizens are brushing it off as classic "new broom energy."
Some have even compared his efforts to those of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, known for arriving at his Harambee Avenue office as early as 5 am — a routine that made headlines during his early days in office.
During a recent visit to Kiambu Huduma Centre, Ruku showed up with just one chase car in tow, warmly greeting staff and citizens seeking services.
Photos from the visit quickly went viral, but not everyone was impressed.
One user, Pngetich Terer, questioned the sustainability of the act: “There were times Gachagua would wake up at 4 a.m. to deal with demonstrators. See where he is now?”
Another, Mtange Allan, urged a policy-first approach: “Impromptu visits don’t boost performance. Develop policies that improve service delivery. Right now, public servants are demotivated — fix that first.”
Andres Weru wasn’t buying the PR optics: “We’ve seen this before. If he really wants to know the truth, he should come dressed like a regular citizen and ride a tuk-tuk. That’s what a real ‘impromptu’ visit looks like.”
Steve Onduto added: “These early office stunts are routine. Give it six months — he’ll vanish from the spotlight.”
Surprise visits aren’t new in Kenya’s leadership playbook.
Former Interior CS Kithure Kindiki popped up at Nyayo House during the passport backlog crisis, promising reforms.
Lands CS Alice Wahome also made headlines after visiting the Kisumu Lands Registry, where she decried fake title deeds fueling regional land disputes.
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