The court repeals the appointment of Anthony Mwaura as KRA chairperson

By Robert Mutasi 

The High Court has revoked the appointment of Anthony Mwaura as Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). 

Judge Francis Gikonyo said Mwaura's appointment was invalid as it was done when he was facing corruption charges.

Mwaura was sworn in in November 2022 after being appointed to the position.

In a gazette notice dated November 17, Ruto said Mwaura will serve for a period of three years.

"In exercising the authority given by section 6(2) (a) of the Kenya Revenue Authority Act, I, William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Chief of the Defense Forces appoint Anthony Ng'ang'a Mwaura. to be the Chairman of the Kenya Revenue Authority, for a period of three (3) years, commencing on 18 November 2022," the government gazette notice read.

"The appointment herein suffers procedural infirmity and illegality as relevant material and vital aspects having annexures to the constitutional and legislative purpose of integrity were not taken into account in the actual process," states Justice Gikonyo.

Dr Magare Gikenyi, who is a surgeon based in Nakuru, challenged Mwaura's appointment, claiming he was accused of corruption and financial crimes.  

 However, Mwaura defended his appointment , saying it was done legally and according to procedures. 

 Mwaura took over from Francis Muthaura, who was appointed by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta in October 2019.