Standoff at Communications Authority Over Alleged Interference in Director Recruitment

A standoff has emerged within the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) board following alleged interference in the recruitment of a Director of Public Affairs, exposing deep divisions among board members.

Sources familiar with the process say the recruitment exercise has been disrupted by a former senior government official who is allegedly exerting undue influence to have a preferred candidate shortlisted for the position of director Universal Service Fund.

Insiders claim the former official has been actively “pulling strings,” issuing directions on how the shortlisting should be conducted and who should advance to the interview stage—actions that have raised serious concerns over the credibility and independence of the process.

“The most troubling issue is that the candidate being pushed does not meet the minimum qualifications for the job as she has 12 years of experience instead of 15,” an official involved in the process said on condition of anonymity.
“This has created a stalemate within the board, with members sharply divided.”

According to documents seen by this publication, the candidate at the centre of the dispute is Maureen Mwaniki, currently serving as Director of Public Affairs, Policy and Government Relations at Huawei.

In her curriculum vitae, Mwaniki describes herself as a public affairs leader with more than seven years’ experience managing public and private sector partnerships. She states that her role involves leading Huawei’s engagement with government institutions, including liaison with the offices of the President and Deputy President.

However, the job requirements set by the Communications Authority stipulate that the successful candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Applied and Physical Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, or Business-related studies from a recognised institution, as well as a Master’s degree in a similar field.

In addition, the position requires a minimum of 15 years’ relevant work experience, with at least five years served in a senior management or comparable leadership role. Candidates must also have completed a recognised leadership course lasting no less than four weeks.

Further requirements include membership in a relevant professional body in good standing, a valid practising licence where applicable, and demonstrated proficiency in computer applications.

Board members opposed to the alleged interference argue that bending the rules to accommodate a preferred candidate would undermine institutional governance and set a dangerous precedent for future recruitments.

As the standoff persists, the recruitment process remains stalled, with the outcome likely to test the Authority’s commitment to merit-based hiring and independence from external pressure.