With barely three weeks left before his current term expires, uncertainty continues to cloud the fate of Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga, as the corporation’s board delays a decisive verdict on whether he will remain at the helm beyond January 3, 2026.
Mainga, who has served as MD for the past six years, has been lobbying for the renewal of his contract as he completes his second consecutive three-year term. Under public service regulations, he is eligible for a one-year extension — a provision the Ministry of Transport is widely believed to support, citing the need for continuity as major railway modernization and cargo-handling reforms remain in progress.
The Kenya Railways Board was expected to make a final decision last week but failed to do so, pushing the eagerly awaited determination into next week. This delay has only intensified speculation and debate within the transport sector.
Oversight bodies, including audit institutions and sector regulators, have raised concerns over Mainga’s continued tenure. They point to recurring allegations of corruption, procurement irregularities, and governance disputes that have dogged the state corporation in recent years. Stakeholders say these unresolved issues have placed the board under pressure to scrutinize Mainga’s performance more rigorously before offering any extension.
Questions surrounding the MD’s eligibility — including his age in relation to public service guidelines — have also fueled controversy, with some players insisting that the renewal should strictly adhere to statutory requirements.
Meanwhile, fresh turmoil has erupted over new accusations that attempts to influence the board’s decision may be underway. Multiple sources within the sector claim that bribery allegations have surfaced, including claims that the MD has allegedly deployed significant resources in a bid to sway the board toward extending his term. These allegations remain unproven, but they have added a volatile dimension to an already tense succession debate.
The board’s impending decision is expected to shape the next era of leadership at Kenya Railways, at a time when the corporation faces heightened scrutiny over financial accountability and stewardship of key national transport assets.
A final verdict is now anticipated next week — setting the stage for what could be a pivotal moment for both Mainga and the future direction of the country’s rail transport sector.