The appointment of Safaricom Founder Michael Joseph as its acting CEO following the demise of Guyana-born Bob Collymore has continued to cause a storm in the country.
The government has finally responded after Kenyans questioned why the mobile service provider cannot give a Kenyan a chance to take charge of its operations.
According to ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru, the government still insists that a Kenyan should be given the chance to lead the giant telecommunications company.
Mucheru, however, said Safaricom has a choice to name anyone but this time around it wishes it considers Kenyans for the post.
He noted that there are hundreds of Kenyans who have what it takes to transform the fortunes of the company if given the chance.
“I don’t think the government position has changed, we would still love to see a Kenyan. However like any other company, they (Safaricom) have a choice as to who they want to be their CEO,” Mucheru told Citizen Digital.
The CS, however, asked Kenyans to allow the company's management to deliberate the matter and pointed out that the appointment of Michael Joseph is still a good idea.
He urged junior staff to accord him support as he seeks to contain the pressure that comes to with leadership transition.