Water Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome has responded to critics regarding her approach to addressing corruption allegations and her hesitation to remove Athi Water Board’s former CEO, Michael Thuita, before his eventual resignation.
In a statement issued on Saturday, CS Wahome confirmed receiving a letter from Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, which called for Thuita’s suspension over corruption allegations. Wahome defended her actions, stating that she is cooperating with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to ensure a thorough investigation.
“I have not in any way failed to cooperate with the EACC as alleged by mainstream media reports, and the exercise of my discretion not to suspend Eng. Thuita, until the requested information is availed to me, did not prejudice investigations,” she clarified.
Wahome further revealed that the Athi Water Works Development Agency is actively collaborating with the EACC to expedite the investigation process.
“I confirm that I will uphold the rule of law and constitutionalism in handling this matter and any other that may be brought to my attention in the course of my duties as the Cabinet Secretary,” she emphasized.
This response from CS Wahome comes after State House Chief of Staff Felix Koskei ordered the suspension of Thuita, citing alleged misconduct in awarding tenders for water projects. Thuita was subsequently arrested by the EACC but later resigned from his position, with Joseph Mungai stepping in as acting CEO.
Previously, on May 31, the EACC had written to Wahome requesting the suspension of the former CEO to facilitate their investigation. At that time, Wahome had requested substantial evidence against Thuita before taking any action.
