Tensions ran high at the Kilifi County Deputy Governor’s office after dramatic scenes unfolded on Friday involving the forceful ejection of former County Secretary Martin Mwaro, who had attempted to access his office despite being dismissed earlier this month.
Mwaro, who was fired by Governor Gideon Mung’aro on April 3, arrived at the premises armed with a court injunction barring his replacement.
However, chaos broke out when county officials, accompanied by security personnel, blocked him at the entrance and physically forced him out.
In a video seen by reporters, angry officials could be seen shouting and confronting Mwaro while members of his security team attempted to shield him.
The situation nearly escalated into a violent altercation when one of Mwaro’s guards reportedly drew a firearm in the heated exchange.
“Get out of here, get out of here!” shouted irate county officials as they pushed Mwaro out of the compound and warned him not to return.”
Mwaro, visibly frustrated, insisted that he had a legal right to access his office, citing a court order issued by Lady Justice Monica Mbaru.
The order had explicitly barred the Kilifi County government from appointing a replacement or advertising the position until the matter was heard in court on May 5.
“Take notice that any disobedience or non-observance of the order may result in penal consequences,” the court ruling read in part.
Despite the court directive, Governor Mung’aro proceeded to appoint Catherine Kenga, the current CEC Member for Public Works, Roads, and Transport, as Acting County Secretary for six months.
Mwaro’s staff claimed that officials had already taken measures to block his return, including changing locks to the office doors and disabling staff access.
“This is in contempt of court,” said one of Mwaro’s aides. “The judge’s order was clear. No one should be in that office until the court hears the case.”
Governor Mung’aro, in a prior statement, defended his decision to sack Mwaro, citing the need to uphold good governance, integrity, and accountability in the county administration.
The incident adds to growing tension within Kilifi County’s leadership and raises concerns over disregard for court orders by county executives.
It remains to be seen whether the Judiciary will take action on the alleged defiance, as the legal battle continues to unfold ahead of the May hearing.
Police officers were present during the scuffle but maintained minimal intervention, later locking the office gate and instructing Mwaro’s team to wait outside as calls were made to higher offices.
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