Nyamira County, Sep 12- Former Nyamira County Health Minister, Timothy Ombati, has taken legal action against County Governor Amos Nyaribo, challenging his dismissal from office.
Ombati claims that his termination was unlawful and did not follow proper procedures.
Ombati’s ousting from his position as a County Executive Officer was centered on allegations of drug theft and financial mismanagement. Governor Nyaribo accused the former health executive of being involved in the misappropriation of public funds designated for the purchase of vital hospital supplies.
However, Ombati argues that he was never given a fair hearing before his dismissal, contending that the termination violated his rights and the principles of natural justice.
In his court papers, he emphasizes that the primary reason cited for his termination was the alleged embarrassment he caused to the governor, a reason he claims is not valid under the County Government Act for the summary dismissal of a CEO.
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Ombati also alleges that his salary and benefits have been withheld without explanation. He is now seeking the court’s intervention to overturn the governor’s decision and order his reinstatement to his former position.
In defense of his actions, Ombati asserts that during his tenure in office, he had a relatively harmonious relationship with the governor and diligently carried out his duties. He initiated the procurement of essential drugs for the County when the initial stocks were running low.
According to Ombati, MEDS (Medical Supplies Agency) was tasked with supplying the county with drugs valued at Ksh. 22 million, with all the necessary approvals from procurement officers, chief officers, and the finance department.
However, due to political disturbances around July 12, the final supply was delayed, and MEDS delivered the drugs on July 22 and 23. Ombati claims that a satisfactory explanation for the delay was not provided.
Furthermore, Ombati mentions that Governor Nyaribo expressed displeasure at the delayed delivery of the drug consignment and the failure to provide the entire ordered supply during a phone call.
The governor, when dismissing Ombati, accused him of falsely claiming that the County had procured medicines and non-pharmaceutical supplies worth Ksh. 21 million, out of a total budget of Ksh. 36 million.
The lawsuit now sets the stage for a legal battle as Timothy Ombati seeks to clear his name and regain his position in Nyamira County.
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