Kenya writes to EAC recalling Secretariat head Peter Mathuki

The East African Community (EAC) Secretary General, Peter Mathuki speaking to the press during a past event. PHOTO | NMG

By LUKE ANAMI

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Kenya has officially initiated the process to recall Peter Mathuki from his posting as the Secretary-General of the East African Community (EAC) Secretariat.

In an official letter written and addressed to the chairperson of the EAC Council of Ministers Deng Alor Kuol, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for EAC Peninah Malonza has posted a notice of withdrawal of Dr Mathuki.

The Secretary-General was last week nominated as Kenya’s ambassador to Russia in President William Ruto’s recent foreign service changes.

It was a surprise move as Dr Mathuki, appointed to the post in 2021 on recommendation by President Uhuru Kenyatta, was yet to complete his five-year term, which was due to end in 2026.

“Kenya hereby gives notice of withdrawal of Dr Peter Mutuku Mathuki as the secretary-general, from the date to be determined by the summit of heads of State,” said Ms Malonza in a letter dated March 15 and copied to all partner states.

“This has been occasioned by his nomination on 8th March 2024 for appointment as the ambassador of Kenya to Moscow, Russia by the President. He is now to serve the Republic in a different capacity.”

Read: EAC boss Mathuki named Kenya’s envoy to Russia

Ms Malonza further informed the EAC ministers that the President had in his place nominated Dr Mathuki’s replacement.

“Consequently, Kenya hereby nominates Ms Caroline Mwende Mueke for appointment as the new secretary-general by the summit.”

The Kenyan government requested Mr Kuol to initiate a summit meeting soon to consider the changes.

“The purpose of this letter is, therefore, to request you to direct the Secretariat to convene an extraordinary meeting of the Council to consider the notice of withdrawal,” said Ms Malonza.

“Submit a request to the chair of the summit to convene an extraordinary meeting of the summit to consider the notice of withdrawal and the appointment of the new nominee to the position of the secretary-general.”