Employees of the Kenya Year Book Editorial Board (KYBEB) have formally petitioned for the dismissal of Chief Executive Officer Lilian Kimeto, alleging abuse of office and mistreatment of staff.
In a petition dated November 4, 2024, addressed to the KYBEB board and the Ministry of ICT, employees claim the CEO has created a toxic work environment that is harming their mental well-being, with some staff experiencing health issues as a result.
“Since Lilian Kimeto joined as CEO, the atmosphere here has become unbearable, with several employees suffering from stress-related illnesses. Our core mission to support government communication has been derailed as we spend more time on her personal projects or hiding in our offices,” the petition states.
The employees also accuse Kimeto of showing disrespect toward the board, alleging that she has made disparaging remarks about board members and the chairperson, Ms. Wambui B. Ng’ang’a, whom she allegedly accuses of being frequently called in by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
Employees further attribute the resignation of the Head of Human Resources and the recent death of the editorial manager to the hostile environment created by the CEO. They claim Kimeto often bypasses senior management to issue directives to junior staff, creating tension and undermining the management team.
The staff report that even new hires have faced bullying and abuse, leaving them disillusioned and considering resigning. “Lilian Kimeto frequently belittles and mentally abuses her team to the point that most staff, including recent recruits, are contemplating leaving,” the petition continues.
Concerns are also raised over alleged threats made by Kimeto, which employees say have left them fearing for their safety. They have requested her immediate suspension, warning that failure to address the issues may lead to more resignations and mental health challenges within the organization.
In addition, a lobby group familiar with the situation is reportedly preparing a petition to the National Assembly and Senate, calling for Kimeto’s removal.
