The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has raised concerns over President William Ruto’s appointment of former Gender CS Aisha Jumwa as the non-executive chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board (KRB). Jumwa’s appointment, made on January 17, has sparked controversy, with the IEK arguing that it violates the Kenya Roads Board Act.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 27, IEK president Eng. Shammah Kiteme stated that the appointment contravenes the legal process outlined in the First Schedule of the KRB Act. According to the Act, the President must select the non-executive chairperson from nominees provided by five specific organizations. These include the Institution of Engineers of Kenya, the Automobile Association of Kenya, the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya, and the Kenya Transport Association.
“Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana does not represent any of these organizations, raising questions about the adherence to statutory provisions in her appointment,” Kiteme said.
The KRB plays a critical role in overseeing Kenya’s road infrastructure, including monitoring road conditions, advising on construction standards, and ensuring the efficient execution of technical projects. The IEK has emphasized the importance of appointing a chairperson with a professional background in civil, structural, or transport engineering to provide technical expertise crucial for fulfilling the board’s mandate.
Kiteme further explained that such expertise would not only enhance the board’s ability to address complex engineering and infrastructure challenges but also ensure compliance with the legal framework governing its operations.
“As highlighted, the current appointment of Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana does not appear to be in accordance with the KRB Act, specifically in terms of the appointment process,” Kiteme stated. “We therefore call for the immediate revocation of the appointment of Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana as KRB chair and the appointment of a suitably qualified chair in compliance with the law.”
