Irungu Nyakera has been removed as the Chairperson of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) Board. President William Ruto revoked his appointment through a special gazette notice, effective April 1, 2025. Samuel Waweru Mwangi has been appointed as his replacement for a three-year term.

Nyakera previously served as the Chairperson of the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA) before moving to KICC. He reacted to his dismissal with irony, saying,

“I feel special to be fired through a special issue. They could not wait for Friday.” His comment suggests he believes the decision may have been politically motivated.

His removal comes just days after he announced he would not attend President Ruto’s tour of the Mt. Kenya region. On March 30, he said he could not make it as he was still studying at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. “I will not be present during the President’s upcoming visit to Mt Kenya as I am still in school at Oxford University,” he said.

Despite his absence, he urged Mt. Kenya residents to welcome the President and not be hostile during the visit. His dismissal could be part of a wider political strategy as the government restructures key appointments. The quick appointment of Mwangi shows the administration’s focus on maintaining continuity at KICC.

The removal of Nyakera may spark further discussions about political loyalty and governance. Whether his dismissal was purely administrative or politically influenced remains a question for debate.