This archive report was first published on 21 October 2019.
On October 21, 2019, Labour Relations Court Judge Justice Mathew Nduma issued a stern warning to Vihiga Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo, stating that he risks imminent imprisonment for a term of six months if he continues to disobey court orders.
The warning came after the Judge ruled in favour of a petition filed by County Secretary Francis Ominde, who had accused Governor Ottichilo of contravening the County Government's Act by subjecting county executive committee members to contracts.
Justice Nduma expressed concern over the Governor's tendency to disrespect court orders, saying that if he continues, he will have to be imprisoned.
Meanwhile, the Judge ordered officers who were suspended upon expiry of their contracted term to be issued with stay orders until a case filed by Ominde is heard and concluded.
According to the petition, Ominde had stated, 'The executive has to be fully in office to serve full term the governor is in office, until another governor is elected and has constituted his cabinet.'
Following the ruling, the county executive committee members who were suspended and those whose term is almost ending will remain in office until February 12, 2020, when the case will be heard and concluded.
