The Nation (Nairobi)
Transport minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere has been asked not to interfere with the recruitment of a managing director at the Kenya Ports Authority.
The Central Organization of Trade Unions secretary-general Francis Atwoli said the exercise should be left to an independent consultant so that the right candidate is appointed to head the strategic Government unit.
“We need a professional to manage the affairs of the KPA and not a political appointee who will only serve the interests of his political masters,” said Mr. Atwoli.
The post fell vacant after the dismissal of Mr. Abdalla Mwaruwa a month ago over mismanagement.
The Government has already called for applications from qualified individuals to take up the management of the ports.
Read Also: Wharf Rats Broach Containers In Durban Port
Following the sacking of Mr. Mwaruwa, a section of Coast politicians told President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga to appoint only a person from the region to take over as the new managing director.
On merit
But, Mr. Atwoli emphasized that the appointment should be based purely on merit and not regionalism or political affiliation. The Cotu boss was speaking at Dwamani primary school during a funds drive to build a secondary school in the area. He ruled out joining politics. He said politicians had ignored the common mwananchi who voted them in.
His remarks came after local political leaders asked him to vie for a parliamentary seat in the next General Election.
Kindly like us on Facebook
Discussion about this post