This archive report was first published on 21 August 2019.
August 21, 2019, marked a significant day in the Kiambu County power struggle as Deputy Governor James Nyoro's actions sparked intense debate about his intentions to take over from Governor Ferdinand Waititu.
Waititu's suspension from office by the court has created a power vacuum, with Nyoro taking charge of the county's official duties. However, the deputy governor's actions have been met with resistance from the county attorney, Waithaka Wanjohi, who has objected to Nyoro's attempt to effect changes in the cabinet.
According to a letter dated August 20, Wanjohi stated that the powers to appoint, nominate, or re-shuffle a county executive member are solely the preserve of the governor and have not been delegated to the deputy governor by law.
"It is instructive to note that you were appointed by the county governor and he alone is mandated under section 31 and 40 of the County Government Act to dismiss a CEC and that power has not been delegated to a deputy governor," Wanjohi stated in the letter.
Wanjohi also clarified that despite Governor Waititu's suspension, he remains the county leader and that Nyoro's actions are unconstitutional.
The MCAs had earlier tabled a motion to impeach the suspended Governor Ferdinand Waititu, with Mr. Elijah Njoroge, the Biashara Ward MCA, fronting the motion.
The future of Kiambu County remains uncertain as Nyoro and the MCAs plan their next move while Waititu is still out of office.
