The Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ), commonly known as the Office of the Ombudsman, has suspended its Chief Executive Officer, Mercy Wambua, and two senior officials over allegations of gross misconduct and financial irregularities.
In a statement on Friday, October 31, Commission Chairperson Charles Dulo confirmed that the disciplinary action was taken following internal investigations.
"The Commission on Administrative Justice (Office of the Ombudsman) has officially commenced disciplinary proceedings against its Commission Secretary/CEO, Ms. Mercy Wambua; the Assistant Director of Finance, Mr. Bernard Nyariki; and the Assistant Director of Supply Chain Management, Ms. Damaris Mburu.
"This action follows serious allegations of gross misconduct, incompetence, and insubordination," the statement read.
According to Dulo, the Commission took the step in line with established legal and human resource procedures to preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigations.
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"In accordance with the law and the Commission's Human Resource Manual, the officers have been suspended from duty, effective immediately, to ensure a fair and transparent disciplinary process," the statement added.
Dulo further stated that the Commission had identified financial irregularities warranting external investigation by state agencies.
"Furthermore, in light of apparent financial irregularities, the Commission will invite the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to conduct independent investigations," the statement further read.
Dulo assured that the Office of the Ombudsman would not compromise on accountability or transparency, promising that due process would be observed as the probe continues.
"The Commission remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability. We assure the public that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure a thorough and impartial process," the statement concluded.
This comes over a month after the Kenya Reinsurance Corporation Limited (Kenya Re) announced the suspension of its Managing Director, Hillary Wachinga, and appointed an acting boss to steer the company.
In a statement on Friday, September 5, the corporation said the move was in line with regulatory requirements under the Capital Markets Act.
"In accordance with the Capital Markets Act and its Regulations, the Board of Directors of Kenya Reinsurance Corporation Limited wishes to announce a change in its executive leadership. Dr. Hillary M. Wachinga has been suspended from his position as the Managing Director for 21 days with effect from 3rd September 2025," the statement read.
The board explained that the decision followed a review of internal matters that are still under investigation.
"This decision was made by the Board following a preliminary review of internal matters, which is ongoing. The Board believes that this action is in the best interests of the Company and its stakeholders to allow for a thorough and impartial assessment," the statement added.
During the suspension period, Kenya Re appointed Nicodemus Gekone, who is currently the General Manager for Property & Investments, to act as Managing Director.
"The Board has appointed Mr. Nicodemus Gekone, currently the General Manager Property & Investments, to serve as the Acting Managing Director during this period. The Board has full confidence in Mr. Gekone's ability to provide steady leadership during this period," the statement further read.
The corporation reassured stakeholders that business operations remain unaffected and emphasized its commitment to corporate governance.
"The Board of Directors reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of corporate governance and to protecting the interests of all its shareholders and stakeholders.
"We remain focused on executing our long-term strategy and assure our stakeholders that our foundations remain strong and our business operations continue uninterrupted," the statement concluded.
