Court halts Kiambu County’s doctor recruitment, blocks dismissal of specialists following claims of irregular hiring process

The Employment and Labor Relations Court has stopped the Kiambu County Government from dismissing specialist doctors following a petition challenging the fairness of the county’s ongoing recruitment exercise.

Lady Justice Hellen Wasilwa, in a ruling delivered on October 20, 2025, issued conservatory orders restraining the county from proceeding with the disputed hiring process until the case is heard and determined.

The case was filed by Dr. Gathoni Njeri Muriithi, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, who accused the county of conducting interviews and shortlisting candidates before the official application deadline had expired.

In her affidavit, Dr. Muriithi told the court that she discovered interviews had been scheduled for October 13, despite the application window still being open until October 15. She further alleged that the county published names of shortlisted candidates and invited public comments by October 10—suggesting the process had been concluded prematurely.

Her lawyer, Henry Kurauka, argued that the recruitment violated constitutional provisions guaranteeing fair labor practices and administrative justice, citing Articles 27, 41, and 47 of the Constitution. He described the county’s actions as “unlawful, unfair, and in bad faith.”

Justice Wasilwa agreed that the matter raised serious questions about administrative fairness and transparency in public recruitment.

“The orders are meant to preserve the status quo and prevent irreparable harm pending the hearing of the petition,” she ruled.

The court’s decision means that Kiambu County cannot proceed with the recruitment or terminate the existing specialist doctors until the matter is resolved.

The case will be mentioned inter parties on October 28, 2025, when the county government and the Kiambu County Public Service Board are expected to respond to the allegations.