The Kenya Revenue Authority has appointed an acting Commissioner General following its decision not to renew the contract of Humphrey Wattanga, marking a pivotal leadership transition at the country’s tax agency.
In a statement, KRA Board Chair Ndiritu Muriithi said Wattanga will proceed on terminal leave effective immediately, bringing his tenure to a close after serving since August 2023.
The board said the move is in line with the terms of his contract, ensuring a smooth leadership transition at a time when the authority faces mounting revenue expectations.
“The Kenya Revenue Authority Board informs the public that it will not be renewing Mr. Humphrey Wattanga’s Contract of Service as Commissioner General,” Muriithi said.
The board appointed Lilian Nyawanda as Acting Commissioner General. Nyawanda, who currently serves as Commissioner for Customs and Border Control, will lead the agency on an interim basis as the board initiates a competitive recruitment process for a substantive office holder.
During his tenure, Wattanga oversaw key organizational restructuring efforts aimed at improving efficiency within KRA. The board credited him with advancing institutional reforms designed to strengthen tax administration and enhance service delivery.
He previously served at the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA), where he rose to Vice Chair, bringing policy and fiscal expertise to the authority.
The leadership change comes at a time when KRA faces increasing pressure to meet ambitious revenue targets and widen the tax base. Analysts say continuity will be critical to sustaining reforms and maintaining stability in collections.
Nyawanda is expected to steer the authority through the transition while maintaining operational momentum. The board reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in the recruitment process.
