The routine county delegation to Zanzibar has turned into a major scandal involving Nairobi Deputy Governor Njoroge Muchiri, revealing allegations of sexual misconduct, favoritism, and a breakdown of professional decorum in City Hall.
At the heart of the controversy are two women, Kellen Muna, recently promoted from a junior protocol role to personal assistant, and Peris Macharia, the office secretary. Sources say the two are locked in a bitter rivalry, competing for Muchiri’s attention in what insiders describe as a toxic love triangle.
“What used to be a professional space has turned into a daily soap opera,” said a senior officer familiar with the office, speaking on condition of anonymity. “It’s no longer about public service. It’s about who gets to sit closest to the DG.”
Muna, who was left off the official delegation list, reportedly traveled to Zanzibar at her own expense, raising questions about her motives. Macharia, included on the official itinerary, is said to have clashed with Muna during the trip. Delegation witnesses described the environment as “tense and awkward,” with internal office conflicts overshadowing the diplomatic mission. “It was shameful,” another staffer said. “Instead of representing Nairobi’s interests, we were caught up in silent wars, side glances, and passive-aggressive jabs between the DG’s aides.”
Muchiri’s choice to replace long-serving personal assistant Solomon Kuria with Muna has worsened discontent. Kuria, now in a largely ceremonial role, is reportedly frustrated and disillusioned.
“Her promotion had nothing to do with merit,” said an insider. “It was a decision made behind closed doors, clearly influenced by personal ties, not performance.”
Many staffers reportedly share concerns about favoritism, micromanagement, and moral compromise under Muchiri’s leadership.Allegations of harassment and intimidation have also surfaced.
Former staff, including a protocol officer known as “Too,” accused Muchiri of misconduct ranging from verbal abuse to inappropriate demands. “He would show up to work intoxicated, lash out at junior officers, and make sexually suggestive remarks,” Too claimed, adding he was dismissed after challenging the DG’s behavior.
City Hall has not officially responded, but the testimonials depict a workplace dominated by fear, favoritism, and fractured loyalties.
Civil society organizations and watchdogs are calling for urgent investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Public Service Commission (PSC). The allegations, if proven, could constitute gross misconduct, abuse of office, and ethical violations for public servants.
“This isn’t just office gossip,” said Jane Wanjiru, a governance advocate with the Nairobi Accountability Network.
“These are serious claims that demand immediate attention. Nairobians deserve leaders who embody integrity, not ones embroiled in petty rivalries and power games.”
The scandal emerges at a time when Nairobi struggles with serious service delivery problems, including waste management, urban planning, and transport issues. Critics fear political distractions and leadership failures are undermining the county’s ability to address core responsibilities.
Deputy Governor Muchiri could face not just public scrutiny but formal legal consequences. His office has declined to comment, but the crisis in the DG’s office has clearly become a matter of public accountability.
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