The Commission on Administrative Justice has suspended its CEO Mercy Wambua and two senior officials amid allegations of gross misconduct, incompetence, and insubordination. The move aims to ensure a fair disciplinary process, while investigative agencies will probe potential financial irregularities. This development follows internal reviews at the state office known as the Ombudsman.
On Friday, October 31, 2025, the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ), commonly referred to as the Office of the Ombudsman, announced the suspension of several senior officials. The affected individuals are Commission Secretary and CEO Mercy Wambua, Assistant Director of Finance Bernard Nyariki, and Assistant Director of Supply Chain Management Damaris Mburu. The suspensions stem from allegations of gross misconduct, incompetence, and insubordination.
The decision was outlined in a statement from CAJ, emphasizing adherence to its Human Resource Manual. “The officers have been suspended from duty, effective immediately, to ensure a fair and transparent disciplinary process,” the statement read. CAJ Chairperson Charles Dulo highlighted the need for external scrutiny, stating, “In light of apparent financial irregularities, the Commission will invite the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to conduct independent investigations.” These irregularities were uncovered during internal reviews.
Mercy Wambua has led the CAJ since March 4, 2022. Prior to this, she served as CEO of the Law Society of Kenya for six years, during which she also acted as Secretary to the Advocates Disciplinary Tribunal and Secretary to the Advocates Benevolent Association. Her career includes roles at the Board of Kituo cha Sheria and the former Ministry of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs.
In 2021, Wambua faced compulsory leave after Law Society of Kenya members voted to remove her, but the High Court in Nairobi reinstated her nearly five months later. She became a CEO in February 2016 at age 36, marking her as one of the youngest in the region at the time. Wambua has received accolades, including the Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) from former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
This suspension underscores ongoing efforts to maintain accountability within Kenya's public institutions, with investigations expected to shed light on the allegations.