Court Upholds Jumwa Appointment

The High Court in Nakuru has refused to stop Aisha Jumwa from serving as the Chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board. This decision follows a case challenging her appointment, which was made by President William Ruto through a gazette notice on January 25, 2025.

Justice Gichohi Patricia, in a court order dated February 11, directed that all respondents, including Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, and the Kenya Roads Board, be served with the case documents. The court scheduled the next hearing for March 5, 2025.

The petitioner argues that Chirchir broke the law by failing to consult key stakeholders before Jumwa's appointment. According to the complaint, the appointment violates the Kenya Roads Board Act and the Constitution, as Jumwa allegedly lacks the required qualifications. The petitioner claims Ruto’s decision was a deliberate move against democratic principles and good governance.

The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) also objected to Jumwa’s appointment. The engineers argue that the position requires expertise in civil and structural engineering, which Jumwa does not have. They insist that her appointment was unlawful and should be revoked immediately.

Despite these legal battles, Jumwa has already assumed office. She officially took over her new role on January 28 in the presence of CS Chirchir. With the next court session set for March 5, Kenyans will be watching closely to see how the case unfolds. Will the court uphold her appointment, or will legal pressure force a reversal? The battle is far from over.