Engineers Demand Revocation of Aisha Jumwa’s Kenya Roads Board Appointment
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has strongly opposed the appointment of former Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa as the non-executive chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board (KRB). President William Ruto appointed the former Malindi MP to the position on January 17. However, the IEK claims the appointment violates the Kenya Roads Board (KRB) Act.
Engineers Question Appointment Process
In a statement released on Monday, January 27, IEK President Eng. Shammah Kiteme expressed concerns over the legality of Jumwa’s appointment.
“The current appointment of Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana does not appear to be in accordance with the KRB Act, specifically in terms of the appointment process,” Kiteme said.
He clarified that under the First Schedule of the KRB Act, the President must appoint the non-executive chairperson from nominees provided by five specific organizations. These organizations include:
- Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK)
- Automobile Association of Kenya (AAK)
- Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM)
- Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK)
- Kenya Transport Association (KTA)
Kiteme added, “However, Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana does not represent any of these organizations, raising questions about adherence to statutory provisions in her appointment.”
Why Expertise Matters
The Kenya Roads Board plays a critical role in Kenya’s infrastructure development. Its responsibilities include overseeing road conditions, advising on construction standards, and ensuring proper execution of road projects.
Kiteme emphasized that a qualified engineering professional with expertise in civil, structural, or transport engineering is crucial for the board. Such a leader would provide the technical expertise needed to address engineering and infrastructure challenges effectively.
“An appointment of a KRB board chairperson with the relevant hands-on technical qualifications would not only strengthen the board’s capacity but also align with its legal framework,”he said
Engineers Call for Immediate Action
The IEK has called for immediate revocation of Jumwa’s appointment. Kiteme urged the government to appoint a suitably qualified professional in compliance with the law. “We, therefore, call for the immediate revocation of the appointment of Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana as KRB chair and the appointment of a suitably qualified chair in compliance with the law,” he stated.
This development has sparked public debate, with many questioning the appointment process and its adherence to legal requirements.
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Engineers Demand Revocation of Aisha Jumwa’s Kenya Roads Board Appointment
