Court gives KPA boss 14 days to respond to tenure challenge
The High Court has given KPA Managing Director Capt. William Kipkemboi Ruto 14 days to respond to a petition challenging his continued stay in office after the alleged expiry of his three-year term.
Nairobi, Kenya - High Court Judge Jairus Naga has granted Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director and CEO Captain William Kipkemboi Ruto 14 days to respond to a petition challenging his continued position. The complaint, filed by Francis Awino, questions the legality of Captain Ruto's ongoing tenure in the KPA chief executive role, stating that his three-year term ended on March 9, 2026.
Captain Ruto was appointed on March 10, 2023, and there is no evidence, such as a Gazette Notice or appointment documents, indicating his term was renewed or extended past its expiration. Judge Naga has ordered the respondent to submit their reply within 14 days, after which further instructions will be provided. Awino is requesting interim orders that would temporarily suspend Captain Ruto from performing his duties and prevent him from receiving salary, benefits, and other related payments while the case is being heard.
Additionally, Awino wants KPA to provide documents supporting Captain Ruto's continued occupancy of the office, including board resolutions, minutes, approvals, and any other relevant instruments. The petitioner argues that allowing a challenged office holder to continue exercising public authority raises concerns about the legality of public acts and resource management.
The petition references several constitutional provisions, such as Articles 1, 2, 3, 73, 75, 201, and 232, as well as the Government Owned Enterprises Act of 2025. Awino clarifies that the interlocutory application does not seek the court's decision on the substantive issues of the petition; instead, it aims to secure interim orders to safeguard the case's subject matter until the matter is heard and decided.
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