For the next 90 days, Stephen Masha will be the Controller of Budget, a position critical in the country's financial management and prudence in utilisation.
President Uhuru Kenyatta picked Masha, who has been Agnes Odhiambo's deputy, to carry on with the duties as the state plans the appointment of the second holder.
Masha was appointed through a gazette notice on Tuesday, and will be tasked to solve the impasse in the Revenue Allocation Bill which has stagnated in parliament.
“In exercise of powers conferred by section 7(1) of the Controller of Budget Act, 2016, I Uhuru Kenyatta, President and Commander in Chief of the Defence Forces, designate Stephen Masha to be the acting Controller of Budget for a period of 90 days with effect August 27, 2019,” reads a gazette notice.
Mr Masha is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK).
He holds a masters degree in Finance from Leicester University and a bachelor’s degree in Education from Kenyatta University.
Mrs Odhiambo was the first controller of budget and her term ended on Monday after serving 8 years which are not renewable. She was appointed in 2011.
Vihiga Governor Wilberforce Otchillo had described her as a force, adding that despite the tough tasks in the office, she always remained firm.
“You had that smiling face, but you were very firm. You had to have your papers right,” said Otichilo, praising her interpersonal skills. “She was always willing to listen to everybody,” added Otichilo.