The recent controversy surrounding the reported transfer of the Public Seal from the Office of the Attorney General (AG) to the Head of Public Service (HOPS) has ignited political and legal debate, with Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka suggesting the move indicates President William Ruto’s lack of confidence in AG Dorcas Oduor.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Senator Onyonka argued that the issue is not merely administrative but symbolic of eroded trust. “The president does not have the trust that the person he has given the responsibility of advising him on legal matters can keep that seal,” Onyonka stated. He went further to suggest that the AG should consider stepping down, saying, “If I was her, I would resign. It basically says the President has no confidence in you.”
The uproar follows reports that the Public Seal—recognized in the Second Schedule of the Constitution—was allegedly transferred through a proposed amendment in the National Assembly Administration Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2023. The proposal aimed to amend the Office of the Attorney-General Act, 2012, thereby removing the AG’s legal custody of the seal and placing it with the HOPS.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura initially defended the move, claiming it was lawful and in line with legislative changes. However, in a swift turn of events, Mwaura clarified on May 22 that Parliament had in fact removed the contentious proposal. “The Public Seal is under the custody of the Attorney General as per Article 9 of the Constitution… it is still with the AG,” Mwaura affirmed.
Former Attorney General Justin Muturi added to the debate, warning of implications on legal accountability. “If documents can be signed and bear the public seal without the AG’s legal advice, that is a serious issue… they are avoiding accountability,” Muturi said.
The issue has raised questions about constitutional fidelity, transparency, and the independence of legal oversight within the executive. While the government insists the Seal remains with the AG, the confusion and political undertones have only heightened scrutiny of President Ruto’s relationship with his legal advisors.
