Soipan Tuya, the nominee for the Defence Cabinet Secretary position, has candidly acknowledged her lack of military experience during her vetting by the Committee on Appointments.
Tuya’s admission comes amid concerns from Members of Parliament regarding her capability to manage the Ministry of Defence’s uniformed units.
“I am aware I have no military background. However, I am a team player by design and practice, and very consultative in my leadership philosophy. I will heavily employ these skills to understand both the operational and administrative roles of the uniformed side of the military,” Tuya stated.
In addition to addressing concerns about her military experience, Tuya disclosed significant financial developments.
She reported a net worth increase of Sh87 million over the past two years, bringing her total net worth to Sh243 million, up from Sh156 million in 2022.
The increase, according to Tuya, is attributed to asset appreciation, private businesses, and the value of an asset acquired in Nairobi.
Tuya, who has a robust educational background in law—including a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi, a Diploma from the Kenya School of Law, and a Master of Laws degree from the University of Washington—previously served as the Environment Cabinet Secretary for nearly two years.
If approved, she will take on the role of principal advisor to the President on Defence Policies and other key responsibilities within the Ministry of Defence.
