Former Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua has pleaded with his successor Wavinya Ndeti to spare the county employees hired during his 10-year tenure.
Mutua told Ndeti not to have any malice to fire the civil servants since they too have families which they fend for.
“People have always said I never fired people or look too long to fire people. This is because each person has a family, responsibilities and needs to be given more than one chance. If any of the people I fired come to you, be very careful,” Mutua said.
He spoke during Ndeti’s swearing-in ceremony at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos county on Thursday.
“I am pleased and proud to witness the swearing-in of Governor Wavinya Ndeti as the second governor of Machakos after my successful two terms as the first governor,” Mutua said.
The outgoing governor handed over the instruments of power to Ndeti during the colourful ceremony attended by hundreds of Kenyans, including various leaders.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka was among the dignitaries who witnessed the handing over ceremony.
“I am pleased that more women are getting into positions of executive power. I have to admit that I have really enjoyed being Governor of Machakos," Mutua said.
"I have enjoyed my time, my job and mostly my service to the wonderful people of Machakos. I thank you all for this great opportunity and wonderful times.”
He said no single leader can do everything, noting even Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel Arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, or even Uhuru Kenyatta were unable able to construct a tarmac road to every village, or ensure there is water or electricity in every house.
“I have done my bit and laid a strong foundation for other governor to build on. Machakos is now on the front pages of not only Kenya but Africa and the world," the former government spokesperson said.
"It is time to move on to bigger and better things that God has planned for me. I have a few words of encouragement to Her Excellency Governor Wavinya Ndeti and your deputy governor,” Mutua said.
He told Ndeti to surround herself with the right people – qualified people, able people and not political sycophants.
“Do not listen to gossip. Civil service is full of witch-hunt. You are a manager. The role of a governor is to govern and not to play politics. Do not listen or reply to attacks," Mutua said.
"They will call you names but I urge you to keep your eyes on the ball. I am a phone call away. Please feel free to call me or to invite me so that we can share ideas. Trust in God. Do not surround yourself with superstitions and witchcraft, as some may want you to do.”
(edited by Amol Awuor)
