Murang’a Assembly Approves County Attorney Nominee

Apr 14, 2023 - 18:24

Muranga County Assembly in session during approval hearing of the county attorney

Murang’a, Friday, April 14, 2023

K.N.A By Anita Omwenga

Murang’a County Assembly has approved the nomination of James Kamau Thuku to the position of County Attorney.

In a motion tabled by Kariara ward MCA Jeremiah Gichobe Mbatia, the Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) unanimously endorsed Thuku to be the first county attorney upon vetting.

Mbatia said it is important that the county assembly and government has recognized the county attorney’s office and its implementation will enable the department to have resources to help the office discharge its duties more effectively.

“It is the first time the assembly has approved a nominee for the office of the county attorney,” he said, adding that the nominee will be the principal legal adviser to the county government among other functions.

Mbatia who also chairs the governance and legal affairs committee said the committee was satisfied that the nominee was qualified and competent to take over the responsibilities.

"The committee found the nominee fit for the position considering his wealth of experience in legal matters and expertise displayed during the vetting exercise among other factors,” he said.

Nominated MCA Loise Mary Mbugua seconded the motion saying the nominee had experience in the country's legal framework and is qualified to take over the responsibilities of the county attorney.

Mbiri Ward MCA Bernard Ruiru said during the vetting exercise the nominee displayed vast understanding in the field of legal matters and he was confident that he is the right person to be appointed for the position.

Nominated MCA Mark Gicheru Wainaina also supported the motion saying the nominee exhibited a lot of experience in governance and legal matters and was passionate to serve the county government as a legal advisor.

The County attorney represents the county in court or any other legal proceedings and helps in negotiating agreements for the county in drafting, scrutinizing and interpreting documents on behalf of the county executive and its agencies amongst other responsibilities with legal implications.

The enactment of the Office of the County Attorneys ACT 2020 elevated the office to be a fully-fledged county department.

If elected, Thuku will serve as Murang’a County attorney for a period of six years.

Courtesy K.N.A