By Joshua Otieno | May 1, 2026
NAIROBI, KENYA — The National Treasury has ordered the immediate removal of Purity Wangui Ngirici from her position as Director and Chairperson of the Board of Kenya Seed Company Limited, in a move that has sparked political debate and governance scrutiny.
The directive was issued by National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi in a formal letter addressed to the company’s Managing Director, Sammy K. Chepsiror. The order invokes Articles 97 and 98 of the company’s Articles of Association, which outline the legal framework for appointing and removing board members.
According to the Treasury, the decision is being implemented under established corporate governance procedures governing state corporations, which allow for the revocation of appointments through lawful administrative action.
The removal comes amid a politically charged environment ahead of the 2027 General Election, with Ngirici having recently exited the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and aligning herself with the emerging “Wantam” (One Term) political movement.
Ngirici has also declared her intention to contest the Kirinyaga gubernatorial seat in 2027 on an opposition ticket, signaling her growing political repositioning within the region.
While the official directive cites governance provisions, political observers have linked the move to shifting alliances and her absence from recent State House engagements, including a high-profile delegation visit to Sagana State Lodge—claims that remain unverified.
Under Kenya’s State Corporations governance framework and the Companies Act, 2015, board officials may be removed through ministerial directive, shareholder resolution, or executive approval, provided due process is followed. The law also guarantees the right to fair administrative action, requiring notice and an opportunity to respond before final implementation.
The “Wantam” movement, which Ngirici has associated herself with, continues to gain traction as a political slogan advocating for a one-term presidency based on performance accountability, particularly among youth groups and opposition-aligned factions.
While government officials have dismissed the movement as political noise, analysts say it reflects growing public debate around governance, accountability, and leadership performance as the country heads toward the 2027 elections.
