The Genesis for Human Rights Commission has filed a petition in the High Court challenging the appointment of Ali Hassan Joho as the Cabinet Secretary for Mining. The group argues that Joho lacks the necessary academic qualifications and has a questionable background, making him unsuitable for the role.
According to Caleb Ngwena, Executive Director of the Genesis for Human Rights Commission, multiple memorandums were submitted to the appointments committee highlighting Joho’s alleged shortcomings.
“We provided evidence in the form of affidavits outlining Joho’s lack of academic credentials and raised concerns about his suitability, yet these were blatantly ignored,” Ngwena stated.
Ngwena also cited allegations of economic crimes and drug trafficking against Joho as reasons for disqualification. He referenced a dossier presented in Parliament by the late Professor George Saitoti, which initially linked Joho to drug trafficking. Although Saitoti later cleared him of these accusations, the group remains concerned. “The allegations, though addressed, still cast a shadow over Joho’s ability to serve in such a sensitive position,” said Ngwena.
The petition further accuses the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties of failing in its duties by clearing Joho despite records indicating his previous role as the deputy party leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). In this role, Joho oversaw government investments and expenditures, raising further concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
The Genesis for Human Rights Commission is seeking a court declaration to nullify Joho’s appointment, deeming it unconstitutional. They are also asking the court to direct the relevant authorities to nominate a “suitable person for the position of CS for Mining” and to issue an order preventing Joho from performing his duties until the case is resolved.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi, who is presiding over the case, has ordered that the petition and application be served within seven days, with responses to be filed within 14 days.
