Quick Answer
The Executive is the arm that runs the national government. It is led by the President and Deputy President, supported by a Cabinet that carries out national policy and runs the ministries that deliver public services.
Key facts
- The Executive is led by the President and Deputy President.
- The Cabinet implements national policy and runs ministries.
- Cabinet Secretaries are appointed by the President and vetted by Parliament.
- The Executive is accountable to Parliament and the courts.
What the Executive does
The Executive implements the laws and policies of the country. In practice it runs the national ministries (such as Treasury, Health, Education and Interior), conducts foreign affairs and security, and delivers the services the national government is responsible for.
Who is in the Executive
The national Executive is built around the Cabinet. Under Article 152, the Cabinet consists of:
- The President — Head of State and Government;
- The Deputy President;
- The Attorney-General; and
- Cabinet Secretaries — not fewer than 14 and not more than 22.
Cabinet Secretaries are nominated by the President and must be vetted and approved by the National Assembly. They cannot be Members of Parliament. Below them, Principal Secretaries run the technical departments.
How the Executive is held in check
The Executive does not operate unchecked. Parliament approves its budget, can dismiss a Cabinet Secretary, and can impeach the President; the courts can review and overturn executive actions that breach the Constitution.
Why this matters to you
The Executive is the part of government you experience as services — and the part whose spending and decisions your elected representatives are meant to police on your behalf.
Frequently asked questions
Who leads the Executive?
The President, as Head of State and Government, with the Deputy President.
How many Cabinet Secretaries can there be?
Between 14 and 22, under Article 152.
Can a Cabinet Secretary be a Member of Parliament?
No — the Constitution bars it.
Sources & references
- Constitution of Kenya 2010, Chapter Nine (The Executive), Articles 131–132, 152 and 155 — klrc.go.ke