The Nairobi Rivers Commission finds itself in a state of uncertainty as its Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier John Maina Muracia, continues to hold his position despite reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60.
Despite reaching the mandatory retirement age earlier this year, Brigadier Muracia, who led the clean-up and restoration of Nairobi’s polluted rivers from the military, is reportedly seeking an extension to his tenure due to strained relations with commissioners and stakeholders involved in the rehabilitation project.
President William Ruto issued a directive on July 5 ordering all public servants who had reached the age of 60 to retire as part of efforts to reduce government expenditure.
The president amplified the controversy surrounding Brigadier Muracia’s continued stay in office by making it clear that no civil servant would receive any exceptions or extensions.
Brigadier Muracia’s situation has also drawn attention due to claims of external influence.
Allegations suggest that certain influential individuals, who have illegally encroached on riverbanks, are backing his bid to maintain his position.
Environmental regulations have reportedly spared these encroachers during the demolition of their structures.
Dr. Pamela Olet’s Nairobi Rivers Commission has formally requested assistance from the State Department for Devolution to resolve the leadership standoff.
In a letter to Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika, the commission urged the government to begin the recruitment process for a new CEO.
The letter amplifies the need for a smooth leadership transition, enabling the commission to maintain its critical work without disruption.
Internal sources report that Brigadier John Maina Muracia embezzled millions in donor funds during his tenure at the Nairobi Rivers Commission, raising concerns about the transparency and accountability of these expenditures.
Established to rejuvenate Nairobi’s river basin, the Nairobi Rivers Commission is tasked with coordinating various agencies involved in cleaning, protecting, and restoring the waterways.
Its mission includes monitoring environmental compliance and developing measures to ensure the sustainable development of the riverine area while working alongside stakeholders from different sectors.
The standoff surrounding Brigadier Muracia’s future at the commission has sparked fresh concerns about the integrity of the commission’s work, particularly in relation to the enforcement of environmental laws.
The longer the uncertainty persists, the more the focus shifts away from the commission’s primary objective of restoring the Nairobi River.