State seeks to replace Francis Wangusi, advertises post

After presiding over a highly controversial transition from analogue to digital television broadcasting, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) Director General Francis Wangusi could be on his way out.

Mr Wangusi's position has now been advertised four months ahead of the expiry of his three-year contract. The CAK board of directors is now seeking to fill up the position, raising speculations about the future of the man who has been the face of digital migration.

Wangusi has been a household name in the past months as he eloquently expounded on the Government's position regarding the digital transition in media interviews.

He was particularly catapulted to the limelight after three mainstream media houses moved to court challenging the manner in which the migration was being conducted.

The legal dispute went from the High Court to the Supreme Court where it was finally determined early this year.

As the lawyers engaged in the courtroom battles, Wangusi engaged the media owners in public debates that dominated the past three years.

Wangusi was appointed director general of the then Communications Commission of Kenya on August 21, 2012 for a three-year term after serving in an acting capacity for a year.

He was appointed by the former Information and Communications Minister Samuel Poghisio taking over from Charles Njoroge in a controversial move.

The new appointment will be for a four-year renewable term. Applicants should have at least 15 years leadership and managerial experience and 10 years must be in senior managerial level. Applicants are required to submit their applications to the board chairman by May 15, 2015.