Former Export Processing Zone (EPZ) Chief Executive Officer Fanuel Odede filed a lawsuit against Trade Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya accusing him of illegal firing.
The ex-CEO claimed that Munya dismissed him verbally three months ago and demanded to be reinstated to the role he had been appointed by former Trade CS Adan Mohamed.
Appearing before Justice Hellen Wasiliwa, Odede complained that his firing was in violation of the state’s labour laws and that no notice was issued.
Through his lawyer Danstan Omari, Odede claimed that his appointment to the position was through a contract which had been expected to last for three years.
“I urge this court to exercise its discretion and quash the decision of Mr Munya then restore (Mr. Odede) to his work,” he told the court.
Omari further told the Employment and Labour Relations court that his client’s dismissal had taken place in front of the institution’s staff.
He explained that CS Munya had made a maiden visit to EPZ premises in Athi River in September 2018, when he verbally fired the embattled CEO.
Omari stated that Odede was then ordered to leave the premises immediately and hand the reigns over to George Makateto, a decision he described as based on fake and flimsy accusations.
Munya, however, dismissed the claims stating that he possessed the power to hire and fire the parastatal’s CEO whenever he saw fit without consulting anyone.
The ruling will be made on December 11.
