By Lauryne Akoth
Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Performance, and Delivery Management Moses Kuria has divulged plans to take action against Nation Media Group and an NMG reporter for fraud and forgery.
Taking to his X page, Kuria refuted claims of being interviewed by the Media station. He also distanced himself from reports about his alleged announcement about Jacque Maribe’s appointment as head of Communications in the Ministry of Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management.
“Contrary to reports by the Nation, I have never been interviewed by the media House nor made any comment nor announcement about Jacque Maribe.”
He additionally mentioned that he reached out to Nation Media Group requesting the reporter, who credited him with the announcement in an article dated March 11, 2024, to present evidence. “I have challenged CEO Stephen Gitagama to provide evidence from one Mwangi Muiruri who wrote the article,” stated Kuria.
He attached a screenshot of the sentiments attributed to him by the reporter stating, “It is true, except that I am not the one who appointed her but the Public Service Commission. It is the right thing to do for Jacque as the President Ruto administration is keen to demonstrate that there is nothing like life in ashes, this is a country of justice, and equal opportunities, and one that will lend you a hand to rise from your ruins.”
The Public Service Commission released a press statement on 14th March denying their involvement in the appointment of Maribe.
PSC chairperson Amb. Anthony Muchiri clarified that no such appointment had been made, and neither had a request to employ Marib hase been received by the board. “For the record, the said position will be filled through a competitive recruitment process should a vacancy arise,” clarified Muchiri.
Kuria affirmed that the screenshot was a forgery and that he would file a report at the DCI headquarters against Nation Media Group and the reporter of the article.
“I have since alerted Mr Gitagama that the said screenshot is a forgery. And I will be at DCI Headquarters at 9.30 am tomorrow to report the Nation Media Group and the reporter of fraud and forgery.” Said Kuria.
He however expressed his support for the former Citizen TV news anchor Jacque Maribe. “Meanwhile I stand with Jacque Maribe, my friend for the last 16 years and I will stand with her just like I stood with Gov Kawira Mwangaza in the wake of unjustified bullying.”
Kuria was alluding to Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s impeachment efforts by the Meru County Assembly, a time during which Kuria supported her.