Board Tension Grows as KICD’s Charles Ong’ondo Seeks Term Extension Despite Hitting Age Limit

Tension is brewing at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) as the current CEO, Professor Charles Ong’ondo, seeks to extend his tenure beyond its scheduled expiry in 2025.

This move has raised concerns among several board members, who argue that extending his term would violate the organization’s policies, particularly those related to the mandatory retirement age.

Ong’ondo took over from Dr. Joel Mabonga in 2020 following the exit of Dr. Jwan Julius, and his five-year tenure has been marred by numerous controversies, including irregular spending and financial mismanagement among other.

Now, as he seeks to extend his term, concerns are rising among KICD staff and section of board members.

Many fear that such an extension could exacerbate existing issues and undermine the organization’s governance and accountability.

“The sudden extension has unsettled the organization, raising serious questions about its legitimacy. There are even troubling accusations that board members are being offered bribes to support the reappointment of Professor Charles Ong’ondo, which reflects a disturbing trend in various state corporations,” remarked an anonymous board member.

He further claims that Ong’ondo, who is known for attempting to influence decisions through bribery in the National Assembly’s Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education, has contributed to a significant decline in staff morale at the KICD headquarters.

Disturbed by the situation, staff members are now urging the board and the current Minister of Education, Mr. Julius Migosi Agambo, to prevent Ong’ondo from securing another term.

“We are aware of what has been happening in the National Assembly committee through their investigative agencies, and how he managed to present himself as clean and above reproach. However, I won’t delve too deeply into the specifics. What we are asking for is new governance at KICD to restore it to its former glory,” said the anonymous staff member, who preferred to remain unidentified due to various potential consequences related to this revelation.