KVDA management row deepens as ousted MD goes to court

Ousted Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) Managing Director David Kimosop has moved to court to challenge his sacking.

Yesterday, KVDA management confirmed receipt of a notice from Mr Kimosop’s lawyer, Katwa Kigen, notifying the authority of the legal action.

The former MD is said to have sought orders at the Labour and Industrial Court to reverse his ouster on May 30.

Kimosop, who had been at the helm of KVDA since 2012, had been awarded a third term last year by a board that has since been disbanded.

But two weeks ago, the board chaired by former Keiyo South MP Jackson Kiptanui announced Kimosop's sacking. He was replaced by his deputy Francis Kipkech in an acting capacity.

However, Kimosop is yet to hand over to his deputy.

Acting director

Yesterday, the acting director confirmed that KVDA management had received a letter from Kimosop’s lawyer, notifying the authority that the case will be mentioned today at the Employment and Labour Relations Court.

“Yes, we have received the letter but I can’t discuss it because it has not been deliberated by the board,” said Mr Kipkech.

The Authority's board chairman on the other hand said KVDA was ready to defend itself.

“The board has not deliberated on the letter from the former MD’s legal team but our legal team is ready to defend our decision,” Mr Kiptanui told The Standard on phone.

Speaking in Marakwet West on June 1, Kimosop said he was yet to be told why he was sacked.

“I don’t know on what basis my contract was terminated but I understand there was pressure from somewhere. Last year, the board sat and extended my contract for another three years,” he said.

He insisted that his ouster was irregular because the board that announced it was not properly constituted.