"Aliniaibisha": Duale claims Jumwa doesn't know how to read, struggled as CS
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- Health CS Aden Duale has attacked former CS Aisha Jumwa, claiming she struggled to read Cabinet papers and that he used to assist her during meetings
- Duale's remarks come shortly after Jumwa quit UDA, citing prolonged humiliation and frustration over her political ambitions
- Jumwa is eyeing the Kilifi governorship, while Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has proposed her for a senior position in his party
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has launched a scathing attack on former Cabinet colleague Aisha Jumwa, claiming she struggled to read Cabinet papers during meetings and that he often assisted her.
Duale made the remarks during an event in Mombasa on Saturday, August 15, as he appeared to respond to Jumwa's recent political activities after her departure from President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The Health CS claimed he used to sit next to Jumwa during Cabinet meetings and would sometimes read documents on her behalf.
“I saw one of your daughters has lost direction. I have sat with her in the Cabinet. I used to sit beside her during meetings. Even reading the Cabinet paper was a big challenge for her,” Duale said.
“I used to help her to read the Cabinet paper, reading on her behalf. I used to feel ashamed,” he added.
Duale did not elaborate on the specific Cabinet papers he was referring to or the circumstances surrounding the alleged difficulties.
What did Duale say about Aisha Jumwa?
Duale's remarks came weeks after Jumwa announced her resignation from UDA, ending her formal association with the party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Jumwa served as Cabinet secretary for Gender until July 2024, when Ruto dismissed her alongside other Cabinet members during a major reshuffle following the Gen Z-led protests against the Finance Bill.
She resigned from UDA on July 30, 2026, citing what she described as prolonged humiliation and frustration over her political ambitions.
In announcing her departure, the former CS signalled that she was charting a new political path ahead of the 2027 elections. Her primary political focus is understood to be the Kilifi gubernatorial race, a position she previously contested in the 2022 General Election.
Jumwa lost the 2022 contest to Gideon Mung'aro, who was backed by then-Kilifi Governor Amason Kingi. She later became a prominent supporter of Ruto's administration and was appointed to Cabinet.
Where does Aisha Jumwa want to stand ahead of 2027?
Jumwa's departure from UDA has opened the door for new political alliances as she weighs her options ahead of the 2027 elections.
Her political future has also attracted interest from the opposition.
Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has proposed Jumwa for the position of deputy party leader as political formations position themselves ahead of the next General Election.
The proposal could place Jumwa in a potentially new political camp after years of association with Ruto's administration.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.