This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
On May 4, 2020, the Labour Court issued an order to maintain the status quo in the case of Josiah Moriasi, the chief executive officer of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, who was facing sacking by the board chaired by Dr Victor Mwongera.
However, instead of suspending the decision to fire Mr Moriasi, Dr Mwongera and the board chose to defy the order, locking Mr Moriasi out of his office and confiscating the keys.
According to Justice Hellen Wasilwa, the chairman and board were aware of the order but treated it 'casually' and 'denied Mr Moriasi access to his office amongst other actions.'
Justice Wasilwa stated, 'The order made by this court, however difficult it may seem to implement, the Respondents treated the said order casually and even denied Mr Moriasi access to his office amongst other actions. The respondents treated the order contemporary and are therefore liable to being punished.'
Dr Mwongera had recommended the appointment of Lending and Investments Manager Judy Kimeto to the top job, but Mr Moriasi's contract had been extended by six months after it expired in October last year.
Mr Moriasi was appointed the Youth Fund's CEO in October 2016 for a three-year period with provision in the contract that the term was subject to renewal for a further three years based on performance.
