Court Upholds Appointment of Bomet and Sotik Municipal Managers
Bomet Municipal Board Chair Davis Langat and his Sotik Counterpart whose appointment had been challenged in court. the Court however threw out a petition filed by two residents of Bomet. Photo/Gilbert Kimutai
By Gilbert Kimutai
Published on January 30, 2026
The Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) in Nakuru has dismissed a petition challenging the appointments of the Municipal Managers for Bomet and Sotik, bringing an end to a protracted legal battle over the recruitment process.
In a ruling delivered today, January 30, 2026, the court cleared Mr. Bernard Ngeno (Sotik Municipal Manager) and Hon. Davis Langat (Bomet Municipal Manager) of allegations regarding irregular appointment into office.
The petition sought to nullify their appointments on the grounds that the recruitment process conducted by the County was unprocedural.
The petitioners further alleged that the candidates did not meet the requisite qualifications for the high-profile roles.
However, after a thorough review of the evidence and legal arguments from both sides, the presiding judge quashed the petition.
The court affirmed that the recruitment followed the letter of the law and that both managers were validly appointed to their respective boards.
Bomet Municipal Board Manager Hon Davis Langat addressing the press recently in Bomet. Langat and his Sotik Counterpart now assumes office following the dismisal of the petitions. Photo/Gilbert Kimutai
Speaking shortly after the verdict, Sotik Municipal Board Manager Bernard Ngeno expressed a sense of relief and vindication.
Ngeno, who has maintained his silence throughout the proceedings, credited his faith for his resilience during the "difficult season."
"I am deeply grateful to God for this outcome and to everyone who supported me throughout this period," Ngeno stated.
"Truly, those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion—they cannot be shake,” He added
He vowed to resume his role with more vigor following the ruling and assured locals of better services within Sotik Municipality.
Bomet Municipal Board Manager Hon Davis Langat addressing the press recently in Bomet. Langat and his Sotik Counterpart now assumes office following the dismisal of the petitions. Photo/Gilbert Kimutai
The ruling is expected to stabilize operations within the Bomet and Sotik Municipal Boards.
With the legal cloud lifted, the managers can now shift their full focus toward urban development and service delivery without the looming threat of litigation.
Local observers noted that the court’s decision reinforces the autonomy of the County’s recruitment organs, provided they adhere to established statutory frameworks.
Bomet Municipal Board Manager Hon Davis Langat addressing the press recently in Bomet. Langat and his Sotik Counterpart now assumes office following the dismisal of the petitions. Photo/Gilbert Kimutai
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