Ambassador Ukur Yattani conceded that he never expected to be appointed by President Uhuru Kenyatta to take over Treasury as acting boss.
President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed the former Marsabit governor, who also doubles as Labour CS, as Treasury Cabinet Secretary, albeit in an acting capacity on Wednesday.
But Yattani, who was at his office in NSSF building, could not establish the news when he received several texts from friends who wished him well in his added duties.
"I received many texts but when I switched on the TV, I couldn't see my name. I tried to check around, I thought they were kidding me. Eventually, my colleagues inside here confirmed," he told reporters.
The former North Horr MP thanked President Uhuru Kenyatta, adding that he was ready to handle the challenging tasks at the treasury throughout his tenure.
“I thank the President for the honour and trust he has bestowed on me by appointing me as the acting cabinet secretary for the treasury. I promise to do my best to realise the dreams of transforming this nation,” Yattani stated.
He added: “I am aware that the task ahead is enormous and the expectation is high on the side of Kenyans. I will strive to ensure the fiscal soundness of the economy by giving priority to the areas that will support the government’s Big Four Agenda and realization of vision 2030.”
He replaced Henry Rotich, who was charged for alleged embezzlement of Sh21 billion meant for construction of Kimwarer and Arror dams in Elgeyo-Marakwet County.
Top among the tasks awaiting him, includes solving the impasse between governors and National Assembly over Divisions of Revenue Bill.