By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, Aptil 8, 2026 - President William Ruto has nominated Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga as High Commissioner to South Africa, even as the tax agency confirmed it will not renew his contract, effectively ending his tenure at the helm of the revenue body.
The dual announcements on Wednesday signal a major transition for one of the government’s most critical institutions while placing Mr Wattanga on a new diplomatic path.
In a notification from the Executive Office of the President, Dr Ruto announced a series of nominations and redeployments within the Foreign Service, describing the changes as part of the “regular cycle of succession” and efforts to expand Kenya’s diplomatic footprint.
Under the changes, Mr Wattanga is set to head Kenya’s mission in Pretoria, while Dr Julius Murori Mbijiwe has been nominated as Ambassador to the Holy See in the Vatican.
The shake-up also touches key European capitals, with Ambassador Irene Maswan nominated as Deputy Ambassador to London, United Kingdom, and Ambassador Judy Muthoni Njau redeployed to Brussels, Belgium, to serve at the European Union mission.
“These postings arise from the regular cycle of succession within Kenya’s missions abroad and to support the expansion of the nation’s diplomatic footprint,” the statement read in part.
KRA EXIT
But even as the diplomatic posting emerged, KRA Board Chairman Ndiritu Muriithi announced that the Board had declined to renew Mr Wattanga’s contract, triggering an immediate leadership transition at the tax agency.
In a statement sent to newsrooms, Mr Muriithi said Mr Wattanga would proceed on terminal leave with immediate effect.
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“The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Board informs the public that it will not be renewing Mr Humphrey Wattanga’s Contract of Service as Commissioner General. Consequently… he is proceeding on terminal leave effective immediately,” said Mr Muriithi.
The move marks a significant shake-up at the revenue authority at a time when the government is under pressure to boost tax collection and sustain fiscal stability.
PARLIAMENTARY APPROVAL
Meanwhile, the presidential nominations have been forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration and approval, in line with constitutional requirements on the appointment of state officers.
The latest changes underline Dr Ruto’s continued restructuring of Kenya’s diplomatic corps, with a focus on strategic missions in Africa and Europe as Nairobi seeks to deepen bilateral ties, boost trade and strengthen its global presence.
If approved by Parliament, Mr Wattanga will transition from the country’s chief tax collector to one of its top envoys abroad, marking a swift shift from domestic revenue administration to international diplomacy.
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