This archive report was first published on 13 May 2020.
As the shortlisting process for the interviews of the managing director of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) began, the board received 104 applications from individuals interested in the position. The intense lobbying for the post has led to concerns that parties who fear losing may move to court to block the process due to their vested interests.
Among the applicants is acting MD Rashid Salim, who is seen as a front runner for the post. However, his application has raised eyebrows, as there were initial reports that he had not applied for health grounds. A source in the board has confirmed that he is among those to be interviewed.
Another candidate being fronted for the position is KPA's general manager finance Patrick Nyoike, who is allegedly being backed by ODM leader Raila Odinga. Nyoike has been under scrutiny by EACC detectives over allegations of conflict of interest and corruption. He was previously suspended but returned to his position following intervention from a top Transport ministry official.
Other candidates in the running include general managers Sudi Mwasinago and Abdulahi Samatar of Kisumu and Lamu ports respectively, as well as port managers Alfred Masha, Yobesh Oyaro, and Fred Oyugi. However, observers say they stand little chance due to their history of corruption allegations.
From outside the KPA, candidates such as Joseph Atonga, Stanley Chai, Arnold Mkare, Hassan Musa, Philip Charo, and Irungu Nyakera, a former PS for Transport, are also vying for the position.
