Oimeke Sent Home As EPRA Names New Acting Director-General

Kevin Namunwa | Aug 18, 2020

The Energy and Petroleum Authority (EPRA) has changed its leadership with Mueni Mutunga taking over from Pavel Oimeke in acting capacity.

The change of position is effective August 17, 2020.Pavel Oimeke’s term ended on August. Mueni’s nomination comes a week after a court order barred Oimeke’s renewal or extension of his term.

An internal memo sent to all staff by board chairman Jackton Ojwang’ said Pavel Oimeke will step aside from the energy regulator and appointed the corporation secretary, Mueni Mutung’a, to the helm in acting capacity.

Mueni currently works as the corporation secretary and director legal affairs.

Prior to joining EPRA, Mutunga, who hold a master’s degree in Business Administration, was the Corporation Secretary and Head of Legal Services at the Kenya Wildlife Service.

Oimeke, on the other hand, took up the appointment at the regulator in 2017 and was eligible for a second term. His term’s renewal has been denied over allegations of abuse of office and corruption.

On his end, Oimeke argued that his reappointment should not be automatic, but should be subjected to competitive and procedural requirements.

Top Ministry of Energy and Petroleum officials, including PSs Joseph Njoroge and Andrew Kamau, have remained guarded on whether Mr Oimeke’s term would be extended.

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