Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has dismissed County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Finance Catherine Mutanu in a dramatic development that comes just before Mutanu was due to face an impeachment hearing at the Machakos County Assembly.
The unexpected decision has sparked fresh political debate within the county, with many questioning whether the dismissal will affect the impeachment process that had already been initiated by Members of the County Assembly (MCAs). The Assembly had been preparing to deliberate on allegations that had been raised against the finance executive.
Governor Wavinya’s move comes at a time when county governments across Kenya are under increasing pressure to improve accountability and financial management. The finance docket is considered one of the most sensitive in any county because it oversees budget implementation, revenue collection, and expenditure.
Although the county government is yet to provide detailed reasons behind the dismissal, political observers believe the action could reshape the ongoing standoff between the executive and the county assembly. Others argue that the decision may help the governor reorganize her administration as counties prepare for the implementation of new development projects in the 2026/2027 financial year.
The vacancy is expected to trigger the process of appointing a new finance executive, subject to approval by the County Assembly. Attention will now shift to whether the Assembly will proceed with the impeachment motion despite Mutanu no longer holding the office.
The latest development comes as governance and accountability continue to dominate public discussions across the country ahead of the 2027 General Election. Leaders at both the national and county levels are facing increased scrutiny over service delivery, financial discipline, and the management of public resources.
Residents of Machakos will now be watching closely to see who Governor Wavinya Ndeti appoints to steer the crucial finance docket and whether the latest shake-up will ease tensions or trigger a fresh political battle within the county government.