Bruno Obodha, the newly appointed managing director of East African Portland Cement (EAPC), has filed a court application seeking to overturn an order blocking his assumption of office.
The conservatory order, issued by Milimani Judge Bahati Mwamuye on 3 January, followed a petition by Caroline Mwangi, who alleged that Mr Obodha's appointment violated EAPC's regulations, which reserve such decisions for the Board of Directors. Ms Mwangi argued that the Public Service Commission, cited in the 20 December 2024 press release announcing Mr Obodha's appointment, has no statutory role in the company’s affairs.
Through senior counsel Prof Tom Ojienda, Mr Obodha contends that the court lacks jurisdiction in what is essentially an employment dispute, noting a similar petition is pending before the Employment and Labour Relations Court in Nairobi. He also accuses Ms Mwangi of withholding material facts from the court, including the Labour Court's prior refusal to block his appointment.
The leadership stalemate has left the MD’s office vacant, causing operational challenges for the Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed company. Mr Obodha was appointed MD by President Ruto on 20 December, but the appointment remains suspended pending further legal review.
