Governor Mung’aro replaces Mwaro as Kilifi County Secretary
Catherine Kenga, the Roads CEC Member, has been named to act in the capacity
A row is brewing at Kilifi County government following the abrupt axing of County Secretary Martin Mwaro which has sharply divided opinion.
Governor Gideon Mung’aro, through his county spokesperson Jonathan Mativo, stated the decision was done in conforming with  promoting good governance, integrity, and accountability within the county administration.
Mung’aro appointed Catherine Kenga, the current County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Public Works, Roads, and Transport as the Acting County Secretary and Head of Public Service for an initial period of six months. She will retain her existing portfolio while taking on additional responsibilities.
Mativo said Mwaro has already been served with the termination letter. Mwaro was not available for comment
The Kilifi County Government reaffirmed its commitment to efficient, transparent, and people-centered service delivery, assuring stakeholders of its dedication to high governance standards. Mwaro was thanked for his service by the Administration he served for the past three years.
There have, however, been concerns from members of the public and a section of the civil society amid allegations that Mwaro was being unfairly targeted and victimised despite doing a stellar job in a sensitive and expansive docket.
Governor Mung’aro has separately been accused of using intimidation tactics to settle scores.
Residents of Magarini, in particular, where the sacked County Secretary hailed from have not taken the matter of Mwaro sacking lightly. A development consultant Chigiri Dunga accused the current administration of malice and bias in its leadership style.
“Amason Kingi when he served as Governor never victimised any employee on mere allegations informed by rumors. Kingi respected Professionalism. That is why Owen Baya (Kilifi North MP) served his five-year term as County Secretary before elected to Parliament without being victimised by his boss. Arnold Mkarye took over and served for 5 years term without being victimised by his boss. In fact if Kingi could have had one more term, Arnold (Mkarye) could be the CS today.”
“Martin Mwaro is a professional like Owen and Arnold. The choice of this son from Magarini Sub-county was the best choice. His professional standing led him to Kwale County where he served as the County Secretary for 10 years under Governor Salim Mvurya. Mvurya like Kingi respects Professionalism. Mwaro helped Mvurya (as the 1st Technical Advisor to the Governor) to achieve a lot for Kwale people. Mwaro is not the problem. Very soon, Kilifi people will know the problem!”
