Wavinya Ndeti Makes Dramatic U-Turn as Court Forces Reinstatement of Sacked Finance CECM Catherine Mutanu
A bitter leadership wrangle at the Machakos County Government has taken another dramatic turn after Governor Wavinya Ndeti reinstated Finance County Executive Committee Member (CECM) Catherine Mutanu following a High Court order suspending her dismissal.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 13, Governor Wavinya announced that Mutanu would immediately resume her duties, saying the county government would comply with the court’s directives as legal proceedings continue.
The governor’s decision comes just days after Mutanu was controversially dismissed from office in a move that sparked political and legal debate. Her removal came only hours before she was due to appear before the Machakos County Assembly to respond to an impeachment motion.
Confirming her reinstatement, Wavinya said she would respect the authority of the court despite the ongoing dispute.
“As a law-abiding citizen, I respect the rule of law and will fully comply with the court order as the matter proceeds through the judicial process.”
She added:
“I have therefore directed Hon. Catherine Mutanu to resume her duties as CECM for Finance with immediate effect, pending the hearing and determination of the case. I wish Hon. Catherine Mutanu all the best as she discharges her duties.”
Court Halts Governor’s Decision
Following her dismissal, Mutanu moved to the Machakos High Court, where she filed a constitutional petition challenging Governor Wavinya’s decision to remove her from office.
Justice Josephine Mongare granted conservatory orders suspending the implementation of the dismissal and directed the respondents—the Governor and the County Government of Machakos—to file their responses within seven days.
In her ruling, the judge ordered that the dismissal letter dated July 6, 2026, be suspended pending the hearing and determination of the application.
“It is hereby ordered that, in the interim, and pending the hearing and determination of this application inter partes, this Honourable Court does issue a conservatory order staying and/or suspending the implementation of the decision of the 1st Respondent contained in the letter dated July 6, 2026, through which the Petitioner was purportedly dismissed from her position as CECM for Finance, Economic Planning and Revenue Management.”
Justice Mongare further warned that failure to obey the court’s directives could expose Governor Wavinya and any other persons involved to penal consequences for contempt of court.
Political and Legal Battle Intensifies
The ruling effectively restores Mutanu to office while the legal battle over her dismissal continues.
The dispute has also intensified scrutiny over the timing of her removal, with the dismissal having been issued only hours before she was scheduled to defend herself against an impeachment motion before the Machakos County Assembly.
The High Court orders will remain in force until the matter is heard and determined.
The case is scheduled for mention before the Machakos High Court on Thursday, July 23, when further directions are expected.
Also Read: DCI Kills Key Suspect Linked to Viral Spring Valley Restaurant Robbery During Joska Shootout