Governor submits new list of nominees

By KARANJA NJOROGE

NAKURU COUNTY, KENYA: Nakuru Governor Kinuthia Mbugua has submitted a new list of county executive nominees in a bid to end a six-month stalemate on the appointments.

The Governor, in a move that could bring to an end a row that has affected operations in key departments, has submitted the new names to the county assembly for vetting and approval.

But some leaders from Nakuru town and Molo have once again complained of being sidelined in most of the appointments the Governor has made in key positions.

“We feel the list lacks representation as the Governor has continued to marginalise Nakuru town residents who voted for him overwhelmingly,” said Dr. Julius Kariuki.

Molo MP Jacob Macharia said his area was also denied a slot in the executive committee, which was contrary to an agreement reached by the county leaders. 

But speaking after a leaders’ meeting on Friday, the Governor said the door has not been closed, as there are many other positions, which have not been filled.

In bid to appease the Members of the County Assembly, the Governor left out some of his allies including former District Commissioner James Mwaura, in the new list.

But Stanley Chepkwony, who failed to impress the vetting committee, has been nominated again for the crucial Agriculture and Livestock docket.

“Though the list is an improvement as compared to the rejected team, the Governor erred by sneaking in names of some of the nominees who were vetoed,” said Wycliffe Oguda of the Nakuru Stakeholders Forum.

Among those lined up to face the vetting committee on Friday include Rachel Maina (Lands, Physical Planning and Housing), Stanley Chepkwony (Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries), Prof Catherine Kitetu (Education, Culture, Youth and Social Service), Stephen Kiplangat (Information and Communication Technology) and Anne Nyambura (Public Service).

Others are Dr Waithanji Mutiti (Chairman, County Public Service Board) and Peter Muriithi Mwarania (member of service board).