This archive report was first published on 28 August 2019.
On August 28, 2019, a Nairobi court granted Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) boss Francis Wangusi a temporary reprieve in a raging succession row at the regulator.
Employment and Labour Relations Court Judge Byram Ongaya issued an order stopping the recruitment of the CA director-general's successor following a petition by the Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek) challenging the recruitment process.
Justice Ongaya ruled, 'Having listened to the parties, I order that the status quo be maintained and any recruitment, selection or appointment of a new director-general of Communications Authority of Kenya is hereby suspended pending determination of the suit.'
According to court documents, Cofek through lawyer Henry Kurauka argued that the CA board last week irregularly appointed Mercy Wanjau to replace Mr Wangusi in an acting capacity despite an earlier order that he continue serving.
Mr Kurauka further argued that the board is currently not properly constituted to undertake the recruitment of director-general and that any appointment made by ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru amounted to interfering with the State agency's independence.
However, the CA board through senior counsel Prof Githu Muigai argued that Mr Wangusi had been legally removed from office after his second term expired on August 22.
Justice Ongaya scheduled the hearing for September 9, giving both parties time to present their cases.
