This archive report was first published on 26 July 2019.
ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru has hinted that the government will not dictate the appointment of a new CEO for Safaricom, citing the company's board of directors as the responsible body.
Speaking at the inauguration of the new board of the Communication Authority of Kenya on July 26, 2019, Mr Mucheru emphasized that the government cannot interfere with Safaricom's operations, despite being a major shareholder with a 40% stake.
“Their job is to ensure that they continue providing value to Kenyans and giving good returns to their investors, and the government cannot interfere with their operations,” Mr Mucheru said.
The position of Safaricom CEO was left vacant after the sudden death of Bob Collymore on July 1, 2019. Former Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph has been appointed in an acting capacity, as debate rages on who should take over.
Mr Mucheru's statement marks a shift in the government's stance on the succession, after he had previously been quoted fronting for a Kenyan to take over the management.
With Vodafone holding a 35% stake through Vodacom, the British multinational is likely to play a significant role in selecting the new CEO, even if the person is Kenyan.
Mr Mucheru has called on the newly inaugurated Communication Authority of Kenya (CAK) board to address the pertinent issues affecting the telecommunications sector, including the question of competition and dominance.
He emphasized the need for Kenya to support innovation and ensure the right regulations are in place, warning that failing to do so could cost the country its innovative edge.
