Mombasa: A section of port users has defended the track record of Captain William Ruto, the Managing Director (MD) of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), since he took the helm in 2023 amid accusations of procurement improprieties.
According to Kenya News Agency, these port users vehemently condemned what they described as orchestrated attacks and machinations aimed at tarnishing the MD's reputation to force him out of office. The Port Users, led by Michael Magak, argue that the MD's challenges originate from forces intent on manipulating the KPA tendering process.
They have expressed unwavering support and confidence in the KPA management, commending their efforts in streamlining port operations and ensuring efficient service delivery through the Corporate Social Initiative (CSI). They criticized a recent newspaper headline as sensational and urged Captain Ruto to continue his professional mandate, dismantling entrenched tender cartels and ensuring fair access to tenders for youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
Under the leadership of Captain Ruto, the KPA has reportedly increased its support for local communities through targeted CSI policy measures focusing on environmental and socioeconomic empowerment. The Head of Public Service has been urged to protect KPA from politically motivated threats by cartels seeking to disrupt operations.
Magak noted that KPA has achieved performance beyond global standards, with the Port of Mombasa surpassing 2 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) in container traffic in 2024-a historic milestone. He emphasized that the port's turnaround time has significantly improved.
Michael Nato, a supplier, supported the MD's efforts to create a competitive bidding environment, which challenges business interests wanting to maintain the status quo. He criticized the smear campaign against the MD, encouraging critics to seek legal recourse if they have grievances.
Mama Ambasa, a resident of Mombasa, urged detractors to allow the MD to continue his work amid regional port competition.