Kenya’s Taxman clarifies staff changes

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has sort to clarify reasons behind staff changes which took place Tuesday – affecting crucial dockets in the authority.

Key affected departments were Investigations & Enforcement Department and Human Resources. The changes were part of a broader Government strategy which is believed to be wider scheme meant to address flaws in the management of the Port of Mombasa and within the import’s supply chain.

Investigations & Enforcement Department is being restructured to improve leadership professional investigative capacity to create greater impact through detection and deterrence.

KRA Board of Directors on Monday approved the commencement of a search for a Head of Department with appropriate background in crime investigations and intelligence management.

The Board approved the re-assignment of Commissioner Jonah Cheruiyoit, the current head to new duties which are under discussion.  In the interim capacity the position will be held in acting capacity by David Yego, formerly Deputy Commissioner in Customs & Border Control.

HR department is expected to have new reforms following the changes and is poised to add transparency and professionalism in staff recruitment and promotions.

A recent survey shows that staff discontent with HR practices and performance is still high.

Rachel Monyoncho will be acting as plans for  a new department head is on course.

“The changes undertaken do not in any way relate to integrity questions touching on the character of the two individuals.  In both cases, the changes were necessitated by the Board’s wish to change course in order to meet the broader objectives of Government and of KRA as set out in the 6th Corporate Plan.

“Unlike past practice where staff deployments are not publicly unveiled, the prevailing circumstances demanded otherwise, since the changes were being discussed as part of Government efforts to reform Mombasa Port operations,” said Commissioner General, John Njiraini in a statement.