The Political and Strategic Implications of CPA Ben Cheruiyot’s Return to Bomet Cabinet
CPA Benard Cheruiyot makes his maiden speech after taking oath of office as the new Agriculture CEC in Bomet.
By Gilbert Kimutai
Published on May 21, 2025
The recent reappointment of CPA Benard Kibet Cheruiyot to the Bomet County Executive Committee marks a notable shift in the county’s administrative and political landscape.
A familiar figure in the region’s political circles, Cheruiyot rose to prominence during the 2022 gubernatorial campaign, where he served as a key financier and strategist for Governor Prof. Hillary Barchok.
Often referred to as Barchok’s “Mr. Money Bag,” his influence during the campaign was widely recognized and closely associated with the financial engine that propelled the governor to victory.
Having spent the past two years outside government, Cheruiyot’s return as the CEC Member in charge of Agriculture is seen as both a political endorsement and a strategic deployment.
CPA Benard Chheruiyor pose for a photo alongside Bomet Governor Prof Hillary Barchok and speaker Cosmas Korir after his swearing in.
His appointment follows a recent cabinet reshuffle that saw the previous Agriculture CEC, Rosa, moved to the Finance docket — a decision likely aimed at capitalizing on individual strengths while addressing underperformance in key sectors.
Governor Barchok’s remarks during the swearing-in ceremony conveyed a strong message of trust and expectation.
By stating that the agriculture docket is now “in safe hands,” the governor is not only reaffirming his confidence in Cheruiyot’s administrative capabilities, but also signaling a renewed focus on improving service delivery in a department critical to the county’s economic well-being.
The agriculture sector in Bomet, which supports a large portion of the county's population, has long faced challenges ranging from resource mismanagement to poor extension services. Cheruiyot’s financial acumen, honed during his previous tenure as Chief Officer for Finance, could prove instrumental in restructuring the department’s operations and restoring public trust.
His swift and unanimous approval by the County Assembly further underscores his political acceptability and suggests strong backing across the political divide.
CPA Benard Cheruiyot is congratulated after his swearing in his as a new Agriculture CEC. He makes a come back to cabinet after a two year absence following his dismisal as the Chief Officer.
This development may also reflect a broader consolidation of Barchok’s political base, ensuring loyalty and cohesion within his administration as he lays the groundwork for future political maneuvering.
However, while Cheruiyot's financial and political credentials are well established, the agriculture docket presents a new set of challenges.
Success in this role will require more than administrative skill — it will demand visionary leadership, grassroots engagement, and the ability to translate policy into measurable agricultural outcomes.
In conclusion, CPA Ben Cheruiyot’s reappointment is more than a personnel change. It is a calculated political and strategic move by Governor Barchok to reinforce his administration with loyal and proven technocrats.
Whether this gamble will yield the desired transformation in Bomet’s agricultural sector remains to be seen, but the stakes — both political and developmental — are undeniably high.
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