Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has suspended the county’s Chief Officer for Economic Planning and Investment, Samuel Limisi Imbwaka, with immediate effect, but stopped short of disclosing the allegations behind the decision.
In a statement issued on Thursday, June 11, Barasa said the suspension was aimed at allowing due process to take its course in line with the law and public service regulations.
The suspension is based on Sections 25 of the Conflict of Interest Act 2025 and sections of the Public Service Human Resource Policies and Procedures Manual 2016.
“As per Section 25 of the Conflict of Interest Act 2025, Section J.18 of the Public Service Human Resource Policies and Procedures Manual 2016, I hereby suspend Samuel Limisi Imbwaka from the position of Chief Officer in the Department of Economic Planning and Investment,” Barasa stated.
In his statement, the governor further said the suspension would take effect immediately so as to ensure due process according to the appropriate laws and HR procedures applicable in the public service.
In the process of suspending the county official, the governor did not elaborate on the reason behind his decision and hence the matter remains unclear.
To ensure operations at the department continue uninterrupted, Barasa appointed Chief Officer for Financial Management Diminah Chikamai to take over the role in an acting capacity.
The appointment takes effect immediately and is expected to ensure the Department of Economic Planning and Investment continues to function normally as the matter involving Imbwaka is addressed.
The county government said the transition is intended to maintain service delivery and avoid disruption of activities within the department.
Barasa maintained that his administration remains committed to integrity, accountability, transparency and professionalism in the management of public affairs.
“The County Government of Kakamega remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, transparency and professionalism in public service,” he said.
The governor, however, did not indicate how long the suspension would last or when the due process proceedings would be concluded.