Confusion at Nairobi Rivers Commission as Brigadier John Maina Muracia Resists Retirement
The Nairobi Rivers Commission finds itself in a state of uncertainty as its Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier John Maina Muracia, continues to hold his position despite reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60.
Brigadier Muracia, who was brought in from the military to lead the clean-up and restoration of Nairobi’s polluted rivers, reached the age for compulsory retirement earlier this year but reports suggest that he is seeking an extension to his tenure amidst strained relations with commissioners and stakeholders involved in the rehabilitation project.
A directive issued on July 5 by President William Ruto ordered all public servants who had attained the age of 60 to retire as part of efforts to reduce government expenditure.
The president made it clear that no exceptions or extensions would be granted for any civil servant, further amplifying the controversy surrounding Brigadier Muracia’s continued stay in office.
Brigadier Muracia’s situation has also drawn attention due to claims of external influence.
It is alleged that certain influential people, who have illegally encroached on riverbanks, are supporting his bid to stay in his position.
These encroachers are said to have been spared during the demolition of their structures, which are in violation of environmental regulations.
In a move to address the leadership standoff, the Nairobi Rivers Commission, chaired by Dr. Pamela Olet, has formally requested assistance from the State Department for Devolution.
In a letter to Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika, the commission urged the government to begin the recruitment process for a new CEO.
The letter amplifies the need for a smooth leadership transition, enabling the commission to maintain its critical work without disruption.
According to internal sources, Brigadier John Maina Muracia is reported to have embezzled millions in donor funds during his tenure at the Nairobi Rivers Commission, with questions about the transparency and accountability of these expenditures.
Established to rejuvenate Nairobi’s river basin, the Nairobi Rivers Commission is tasked with coordinating various agencies involved in cleaning, protecting, and restoring the waterways.
Its mission includes monitoring environmental compliance and developing measures to ensure the sustainable development of the riverine area while working alongside stakeholders from different sectors.
The standoff surrounding Brigadier Muracia’s future at the commission has sparked fresh concerns about the integrity of the commission’s work, particularly in relation to the enforcement of environmental laws.
The longer the uncertainty persists, the more the focus shifts away from the commission’s primary objective of restoring the Nairobi River.
KenyanHour 