The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has replaced its Commissioner General, Humphrey Wattanga, in an abrupt leadership change that comes at a sensitive moment for the country’s revenue drive.
In a statement on Wednesday, the tax agency said its board would not renew Wattanga’s contract. He has been sent on terminal leave with immediate effect, ending a tenure closely linked to efforts to strengthen tax compliance under President William Ruto’s administration.
The KRA board, chaired by Ndiritu Muriithi, did not give a reason for the decision but commended Wattanga for his “dedicated service and leadership,” noting his role in internal restructuring and reform efforts at the agency.
Dr. Lilian Nyawanda, who currently serves as Commissioner for Customs and Border Control, has been appointed acting Commissioner General while a competitive recruitment process is conducted.
“The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Board informs the public that it will not be renewing Mr. Humphrey Wattanga’s Contract of Service as Commissioner General,” the board said. “Consequently, and in accordance with his Contract of Service, he is proceeding on terminal leave effective immediately.”
Wattanga, a Harvard-trained tax expert who assumed office in 2023, was brought in to strengthen tax collection amid rising fiscal pressures and growing public debt.
His tenure focused on data-driven enforcement and internal restructuring aimed at improving efficiency, particularly within customs one of KRA’s most important revenue channels.
However, his time in office also coincided with increasing pressure on the tax authority as the government leaned heavily on revenue collection to fund its budget, while businesses and households faced rising taxes and cost-of-living pressures.
In recent months, KRA has faced criticism from parts of the private sector over stricter enforcement measures, even as it works to meet ambitious revenue targets set by the National Treasury.
Nyawanda’s appointment signals a move for continuity from within the agency’s senior leadership. As head of customs, she oversees a key revenue division responsible for a large share of tax inflows and trade regulation.
Her performance in an acting capacity will be closely watched for indications of whether KRA maintains its current enforcement approach or adjusts its strategy amid growing concerns over the tax burden on businesses and citizens.
