Shock As Wattanga Lands Diplomatic Posting Hours After KRA Exit
Separately, a State House statement released hours later detailed presidential nominations and redeployments within Kenya’s Foreign Service under routine succession and expansion of missions abroad.
By Staff Writer
Shock and questions have emerged after former Kenya Revenue Authority Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga secured a diplomatic posting hours after exiting office earlier today.
An internal memorandum confirmed Wattanga had proceeded on terminal leave with immediate effect, signaling an abrupt leadership change at the revenue authority.
The memo, signed by Board Chairman Ndiritu Muriithi, credited Wattanga with advancing reforms and organizational restructuring during his tenure at the tax agency.
“The Kenya Revenue Authority Board of Directors hereby communicates the exit of the Commissioner General, Mr. Humphrey Wattanga, EBS who has proceeded on terminal leave effective immediately,” Muriithi stated.
The Board expressed appreciation for his contributions and wished him well, while outlining measures to maintain continuity and institutional stability within the authority.
In the interim, Customs and Border Control Commissioner Dr Lillian Nyawanda has been appointed acting Commissioner General pending recruitment through a competitive process.
Separately, this evening, a State House press release detailed presidential nominations and redeployments within Kenya’s Foreign Service under routine succession planning.
Wattanga has been nominated as High Commissioner to Pretoria, South Africa, subject to approval by the National Assembly in line with constitutional requirements.
Other nominations include Dr Julius Murori Mbijiwe as Ambassador to the Vatican, also known as the Holy See, expanding Kenya’s diplomatic representation.
At the deputy level, Ambassador Irene Maswan has been nominated to London in the United Kingdom, while Ambassador Judy Muthoni Njau is set for Brussels, Belgium and the European Union.
The notice indicated the changes are part of efforts to strengthen Kenya’s diplomatic footprint and support operations across its foreign missions abroad.
“His Excellency the President has today effected nominations within the nation’s Foreign Service,” said Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, noting the list was submitted to Parliament.
The nominations now await vetting and approval by lawmakers, after which successful candidates will assume their respective postings in Kenya’s overseas missions.
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