IEK blasts arrests, political interference and unfair removals of engineers from leadership roles
IEK highlighted the case of former Central Rift Valley Water Agency CEO Samuel Oruma, who was reportedly removed from his position and sent on compulsory leave despite later being cleared by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has raised concerns over the increasing mistreatment of engineers in top leadership roles, citing unceremonious removals, high-profile arrests, and political interference that threaten the integrity of Kenya’s professional community.
In a statement on Tuesday, IEK highlighted the case of former Central Rift Valley Water Agency CEO Samuel Oruma, who was reportedly removed from his position and sent on compulsory leave despite later being cleared by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
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“While he has since been cleared by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, his name was tarnished, he was forced to resign and leave office and even once cleared, there is no remedy to clear this blemish and reinstate him,” the institute said.
IEK warned that the recurring trend of dramatic arrests and removals disregards human dignity, due process, and the principles of fairness.
Eroding confidence
“Such actions send a chilling message to Kenya’s professional community, threatening to erode confidence in leadership opportunities and risking the flight of highly skilled talent from our key institutions,” it said.
The institution noted that engineers adhere to strict professional codes requiring accountability, precision, and integrity. Their work produces verifiable records, making it possible to establish facts during audits.
IEK cautioned that conflicts arise when individuals or systems attempt to compromise these standards for political or personal gain.
“Punishing professionals who stand for what is right undermines the very foundation of good governance and institutional integrity. Such mistreatment disrupts national productivity, delays critical projects and diminishes Kenya’s capacity to address pressing challenges such as climate adaptation, urban planning and technological progress,” the statement added.
While IEK clarified that it does not condone unethical conduct, it condemned what it described as “calculated victimisation” of qualified, hardworking engineers. The institution called on investigative agencies not to be used for political purposes to target innocent professionals.
Independent inquiries
It urged investigative bodies to conduct thorough and independent inquiries into the removal and arrest of engineer CEOs, ensuring accountability, fairness, and justice. The body emphasised that affected engineers should be reinstated where investigations show their removal or arrest was unjustified or politically motivated.
IEK also called for strong legal and institutional safeguards to protect professionals from arbitrary dismissals, undue interference, and intimidation, insisting that leadership decisions should always be guided by ethics, competence, and merit.
The institution further condemned the practice of arresting engineers outside working hours, particularly on Fridays, noting that such actions cause unnecessary psychological distress and tarnish reputations.
It reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with employers, boards, policymakers, professional bodies, and government agencies to foster an environment where engineers can perform their duties independently, confidently, and with dignity.
“Engineers are the backbone of Kenya’s socio-economic development. They design, innovate and manage systems that keep the nation functioning and advancing. Undermining their leadership weakens institutions, delays progress and compromises the trust and stability upon which Kenya’s growth depends,” IEK said.
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