Union Raises Alarm Over Controversial Extension of Nairobi Water MD’s Term
By John Waithaka
The Kenya Union of Water and Sewerage Employees (KUWASE), Nairobi County Branch, has voiced strong objections over the proposed contract extension of Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company Managing Director, Eng. Nahason Muguna. The MD, who reached the mandatory retirement age of 60, was expected to take terminal leave and retire from public service. However, reports indicate he is lobbying the company’s Board of Directors and Members of the County Assembly for a three-year contract extension.
Addressing the media, KUWASE Nairobi County Branch led by Branch Secretary Wycliffe Onditi emphasized the Union’s disapproval, citing concerns about governance and adherence to constitutional requirements. “We categorically oppose this unwarranted extension. There are many qualified professionals, both within and outside the company, capable of steering Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company to new heights and enhancing service delivery for our customers,” he said.
The Union criticized Muguna’s tenure, highlighting the challenges staff have endured under his administration, particularly the unresolved issue of pension funds. Mr. Onditi revealed that approximately KSh 2.3 billion in workers’ pension funds remain unaccounted for, leaving many retirees in financial distress. “Retirees are dying in poverty while this money remains a mystery. This is unacceptable,” he added.
KUWASE reiterated that the retirement age is explicitly regulated under the Kenyan Constitution and other statutory provisions, leaving no room for extensions. “Retirement rules are clear and apply to all civil servants and state officers, including the MD. Any attempt to bypass these laws through bribery or undue influence will face fierce resistance from the workers’ fraternity,” warned Mr. Onditi.
The Union has called for immediate intervention from relevant agencies to ensure Muguna exits peacefully. Should their concerns go unaddressed, they threatened to take industrial action, including litigation, a go-slow, and a mass demonstration at the company’s headquarters.
KUWASE’s stance reflects broader frustrations with leadership and transparency within the organization, underscoring the urgent need for accountability and a leadership transition in line with constitutional mandates.
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