Kenya’s Employment and Labour Relations Court on Friday ordered the immediate reinstatement of ICT Authority CEO Stanley Kamanguya, finding that his removal was marred by procedural irregularities and violated lawful reappointment protocols.
The case stems from the ICT Authority Board’s controversial move to revoke Kamanguya’s reappointment despite earlier approval by the ICT Cabinet Secretary. The court’s decision now spotlights governance tensions within Kenya’s digital transformation agency.
Court blocks ICT Authority CEO dismissal over procedure flaws
Justice Mathews Nduma issued a conservatory order that reinstated Kamanguya and barred the Board from advertising or recruiting for the CEO role until the matter is fully heard. The order also restrained Owiti from performing CEO duties and instructed the Authority to restore Kamanguya’s full access to office resources.
The ruling followed an urgent application filed by Kamanguya, who maintained that his three-year reappointment had been lawfully endorsed by ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo on March 10. His current term ends August 7, with the new term expected to begin immediately after.
Despite a prior court warning on June 30 against interference, the Board nullified his reappointment in a meeting held July 1. It accused Kamanguya of breaching due process, including submitting his own renewal documents and organising an unsanctioned board session.
ICTA board cites irregularities in CEO reappointment
According to the Board, Kamanguya’s renewal application, dated February 6, was received on March 4, which they claim fell short of the six-month notice required by public service rules. They also argued that the March 6 meeting that approved his reappointment was improperly reconvened after being adjourned, without proper notification.
Further, the Board alleged that Kamanguya prepared and presented his own appointment paper, bypassing a proper evaluation process. The reappointment resolution was allegedly finalised in haste and signed by a sessional chairperson, violating the Mwongozo Code that guides governance in public institutions.
Kamanguya has denied these claims and insists that due process was followed. He urged that the matter not be politicised and called on the Authority to focus on delivering its digital mandate.
Leadership crisis at ICTA escalates as legal dispute continues
The leadership standoff has raised questions about internal governance at the ICT Authority. On July 7, the Board placed Kamanguya on terminal leave and named Zilpher Owiti as acting CEO via a public announcement, actions now invalidated by the court.
Justice Nduma also summoned Board Chair Lily Ng’ok to appear in court and explain why she should not be held in contempt for violating earlier court directives. A formal interpartes hearing is scheduled for September 29.
Speaking to staff after resuming duty, Kamanguya reaffirmed his commitment to public service and Kenya’s digital transformation: “We must obey the law and work together for the good of this organisation and the citizens we serve.”