The Milimani High Court in Nairobi has issued a conservatory order blocking Bruno Oguda Obodha from assuming the role of Managing Director at the East African Portland Cement Company (EAPCC).
The ruling, delivered by Justice Bahati Mwamuye, follows an application filed by Carolina Mwangi, who is challenging the appointment on grounds of conflict of interest.
The order temporarily halts the implementation of the appointment made on December 20, 2024, pending an inter partes hearing scheduled for February 12, 2025.
Mwangi’s application claims that Obodha’s appointment contravenes ethical and corporate governance principles, raising concerns over his suitability for the role.
The case has brought to light allegations of conflict of interest against Obodha.
According to a letter addressed to the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment by EAPCC board chairman Brig. (Rtd) Richard Mbithi, Obodha is a director of Geoner Systems & Massel Real Property, a company contracted by EAPCC in December 2023 as a selling agent for a portion of LR No. 10424.
The letter asserts that this directorship creates a significant conflict of interest and undermines the integrity of the appointment process.
The board emphasized that it was unaware of these concerns when it submitted names for consideration.
The letter also referenced a government circular from April 2022 that advises against appointing individuals with unresolved integrity issues, further complicating the matter.
Obodha’s appointment has also triggered protests among EAPCC workers.
On December 23, 2024, workers shut down operations at the company’s Athi River plant in opposition to the decision.
Although operations have since resumed, the controversy surrounding the appointment remains unresolved.
The court has directed all parties involved to cease actions relating to the appointment and file affidavits of service by close of business.
The matter has cast a spotlight on President William Ruto’s administration and the processes governing state appointments, raising critical questions about adherence to ethical standards and corporate governance in public sector recruitment.
