Ombudsman’s office suspends CEO, two other senior officials amid gross misconduct allegations
The CAJ also promised to keep the public informed of all material developments as the proceedings advance.
The Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ) has escalated disciplinary action against its top officials, suspending Commission Secretary/CEO Mercy Wambua and two senior officers over allegations of gross misconduct, incompetence, and insubordination.
The suspensions are effective immediately and come as the Commission officially commences disciplinary proceedings against the three officers.
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The action follows Wambua’s initial two-week interdiction, which was intended to allow preliminary investigations to take place.
The other officials affected by the suspension are the Assistant Director of Finance, Bernard Nyariki, and the Assistant Director of Supply Chain Management, Damaris Mburu. The Commission said the action is in line with the law and its Human Resource Manual, aimed at ensuring a fair and transparent disciplinary process.
Additionally, in light of apparent financial irregularities, the Commission will invite the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to conduct independent investigations. These probes will complement the internal disciplinary proceedings.
"The Commission remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability. We assure the public that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure a thorough and impartial process," said the Office of the Ombudsman in a statement.
The CAJ also promised to keep the public informed of all material developments as the proceedings advance.
Wambua had been placed on a 14-day interdiction pending investigations into allegations of gross misconduct and incompetence.
The decision was communicated in a letter signed by the Commission’s Chairperson, Charles Dulo, following deliberations during the 73rd Commission meeting held on October 15, 2025.
Wambua has served as the head of the Commission since March 4, 2022, overseeing its mandate of promoting administrative justice and accountability in public service. Before joining the Commission, she served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Law Society of Kenya for six years, where she played a key role in upholding professional standards and governance within the legal fraternity.
During that time, she also served as Secretary to the Advocates Disciplinary Tribunal and the Advocates Benevolent Association.
Additionally, she has held positions at the Board of Kituo cha Sheria and the former Ministry of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs.
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