George Wanga’s abrupt dismissal from his role as Chairperson of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has sparked intense speculation, with many questioning whether the move was political retaliation. Appointed just five months ago in January, Wanga has now been replaced by Adan Haji Ali, a decision that has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s political scene.
His ousting comes just days after his wife, Homa Bay Governor and ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga, publicly condemned police brutality during recent anti-government demonstrations. In her criticism, she boldly called out President William Ruto’s administration and reminded the head of state about the ODM-UDA power-sharing arrangement.
While no official reason for Wanga’s firing has been given, the timing has raised eyebrows. Online, Kenyans have been quick to draw connections and air their views.
Some believe the move was a calculated political message from President Ruto – a warning shot to those in government circles whose families openly oppose his administration. Others criticized Gladys Wanga, claiming she should have known better than to rock the boat while her husband held a state position.
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Commentators on Facebook didn’t mince words. One user, Zaddy, referenced Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s past political woes, suggesting that mixing personal and official roles rarely ends well. Another, Andrew, sarcastically quipped that Wanga might soon be job hunting with help from a former Kibra MP.
Indeche bluntly stated that under Ruto’s rule, there’s no space for perceived disloyalty, while Isaac Kinyanjui offered a different take – that this was simply a strategic move by the president to tighten his grip as 2027 looms. Maswai agreed, saying the early shake-up signals that the political game has already begun behind the scenes.
Whether Wanga’s dismissal was a personal vendetta or part of a broader political chess match remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that in Kenya’s high-stakes political arena, even indirect defiance can have swift consequences.
