Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri confirmed he expected his dismissal by President Uhuru Kenyatta, describing a tenure fraught with challenges and public scrutiny. The revelation came after Kiunjuri was seen departing a Nairobi bank in a Mercedes Benz following the announcement, having arrived in his official Land Cruiser V8. A witness reported he refused to re-enter the government-issued vehicle, stating, 'Hata hiyo gari sipandi' (I won't even enter that car).
Kiunjuri, who was replaced by Peter Munya, acknowledged a 'most difficult year' during a press conference, citing 'humiliation' and 'threats to my energy and resolve.' He praised the president's acknowledgment of agricultural growth but declined to comment on allegations surrounding his tenure. 'I have a responsibility to keep the oath of office,' he said, warning of potential future disclosures.
The sacking followed public rebukes from Kenyatta in 2018 over irregularities in maize procurement through the National Cereals and Produce Board. Kiunjuri emphasized the president's authority to make appointments, stating, 'The President did not consult anybody when I was appointed CS.' He expressed confidence in his resilience, urging supporters to 'stay calm and not cry for me.'
