Water Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome has responded to critics questioning her commitment to eradicating corruption in the wake of reports that she hesitated to remove former Athi Water Board CEO Michael Thuita before his eventual resignation.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Wahome acknowledged receiving a letter from Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, which called for Thuita’s suspension over corruption allegations.
In her response, CS Wahome clarified that she is actively cooperating with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to thoroughly investigate the matter.
“I want to make it clear that I have not failed to cooperate with the EACC, as reported by the media. My decision not to suspend Eng. Thuita until I receive the requested information did not impede the ongoing investigations,” she affirmed.
Wahome disclosed that the Athi Water Works Development Agency is working closely with the EACC to expedite the investigative process.
“I assure you that I am committed to upholding the rule of law and constitutional principles in handling this matter and any other that may come to my attention during my tenure as Cabinet Secretary,” she emphasized.
CS Wahome came under scrutiny after Felix Koskei, State House Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, directed the agency’s board to suspend Thuita on Friday.
Koskei stated in a release that this move was necessary to facilitate investigations into alleged improprieties in the awarding of contracts for the construction of the Ruiru II, Karimenu, and Kitui Matuu water projects.
Following Koskei’s directive, Thuita was arrested by the EACC on Saturday, as tensions within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party intensified. Subsequently, Thuita resigned, and Joseph Mungai assumed the role in an acting capacity.
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