Ombudsman CEO Mercy Wambua resigns, Commission begins search for successor

The Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ), popularly known as the Office of the Ombudsman, has announced the resignation of its Commission Secretary and CEO, Mercy Wambua.

In a statement released Friday, the Commission said Wambua tendered her resignation on January 27, 2026. 

The resignation was formally considered and accepted during the Commission’s 80th Sitting, in line with the law and the institution’s internal human resource policies.

“The Commission, at its 80th Sitting, considered and accepted the resignation in accordance with the law and the Commission’s Human Resource policies,” CAJ Chairperson Charles Dulo said in the statement.

Wambua has been serving as both the Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, roles that place her at the administrative and operational helm of the Office of the Ombudsman. 

The CAJ is constitutionally mandated to investigate complaints of maladministration in the public sector, promote administrative justice, and enhance accountability in public service.

Following her departure, the Commission has moved to ensure continuity by initiating the process of recruiting a new Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer.

According to the statement, the recruitment will be conducted strictly in line with the Constitution, the Commission on Administrative Justice Act, and applicable public service regulations.

“The Commission has initiated the process of recruiting a new Commission Secretary/Chief Executive Officer to ensure continuity in leadership and the effective discharge of the Commission’s mandate,” Dulo said.

The Ombudsman plays a critical role in safeguarding citizens against abuse of power, bureaucratic inefficiency, and unfair administrative practices.

Leadership stability at the Commission is therefore seen as essential, particularly at a time when public scrutiny of state institutions and demand for accountability remain high.

While the Commission did not disclose the reasons behind  Wambua’s resignation, it emphasised that the transition would not disrupt its operations or service delivery to the public.

The statement underscored the institution’s commitment to its core values.

“The Commission remains committed to serving the public with integrity, transparency, and accountability,” the Chairperson noted, adding that the public would be kept informed as the recruitment process progresses.

As the search for a new CEO begins, attention is expected to focus on maintaining institutional momentum and strengthening the Ombudsman’s capacity to address complaints from citizens across the country. 

The Commission said it will provide updates on key milestones in the appointment process in due course.