Cofek sues Transport CS for appointing Norwegian KAA boss

Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia at a past function this year. A lobby has sued him for appointing a foreign national to head the Kenya Airports Authority. PHOTO | EVANS HABIL | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Cofek has sued the Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia, Kenya Airports Authority and PricewaterhouseCoopers.
  • Norwegian's appointment brought to an end a protracted recruitment process that was characterised by claims of political interference.

The Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek) has challenged the appointment of a Norwegian to head the Kenya Airports Authority.

The consumer rights body said the position is meant for a Kenyan, not a foreign national.

Johnny Anderson was appointed as the new KAA managing director on July 12, taking over from Yatich Kangugo, who had served as the managing director in acting capacity.

The lobby argues that Mr Anderson's appointment was a form of discrimination against Kenyans.

Further, Cofek says it is not clear how Mr Anderson accessed the advertisement for the job or fulfilled requirements on integrity, wealth declaration, a certificate of good conduct and tax compliance.

Cofek has sued Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia, the Kenya Airports Authority and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

The Norwegian man's appointment brought to an end a protracted recruitment process characterised by claims of political interference.

Mr Andersen was picked after he trounced five other candidates, including Mr Yatich, who emerged a distant fifth in the interviews.

(Editing by Joel Muinde)