Govt Official Accused Of Involvement In Protests Resigns

Philemon Kandie has tendered his resignation as the Director General of the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA). This decision comes days after he was accused of funding the violent protests in June.

In a letter dated July 11, Kandie stated that his resignation notice takes effect immediately, with his official departure scheduled for October 10, 2025.

He also indicated in the letter that he plans to utilise his accumulated annual leave during the notice period.

"Reference is made to your letter Ref. No. KeRRA/02/04.08/874/(36) dated April 13, 2022, on my appointment to the position of Director General on a 5 (five) year contract effective April 13, 2022, and to end on April 12, 2027.

Philemon Kandie who has tendered his resignation as the Director General of the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA). /KENYA INSIGHTS

“This letter serves as a formal notification of my resignation from the position of Director General at Kenya Rural Roads Authority, giving a notice of 3 months effective July 11, 2025, with my last day of employment being October 10, 2025. I wish to proceed on my 45 days' annual leave during the period of my notice effective July 14, 2025," he said.

However, Kandie did not give the reason for his resignation, rather stating that "I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition during this period and take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the Board of KeRRA for the support and incredible journey throughout my tenure. I wish everyone in the team much success in the years to come."

Kandie’s resignation comes just a week after a petition was filed at the High Court calling for his removal from office over allegations of financial and political misconduct.

Lead petitioner Wahome Mucunu accused Kandie of misusing his position to channel public funds through shell companies and contractors to support violent demonstrations that took place in June.

Court documents claim the unrest sparked by this campaign resulted in widespread chaos across the country, including property damage, injuries, loss of life, and disruption of public services.

Mucunu argues that the protests were not peaceful but were instead criminally orchestrated events that threatened national unity, allegedly funded through state resources managed by Kandie’s office.