Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has been barred from taking up his new role as a member of the Nairobi Rivers Commission. The court decision was made on Friday, February 10, by Justice Hedwig Ong’udi. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and Transparency International Kenya had filed a suit challenging the former governor’s suitability for the position.
“Challenge to Waititu’s Appointment Raised by LSK and TI Kenya”
President William Ruto had appointed Waititu to the commission in December 2022, with the aim of reclaiming the Nairobi River and tackling its rampant pollution. However, the appointment was met with opposition from LSK and TI Kenya, who filed a petition on January 24. The petitioners argued that Waititu, who had been impeached from his position as the second governor of Kiambu in 2020, lacked the moral and ethical foundation required for a state office.
Despite the petition, Waititu had vowed to employ the youth to ensure that the Nairobi River is not contaminated. The newly formed commission consists of state and non-state actors, including United Nations agencies. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has emphasized that it will take more than the agency to save the Nairobi River from years of pollution. He affirmed that the commission is a testament to Kenya’s commitment to partnerships and engagement with all.
