Kenya: Vivo Energy CEO steps down to pursue Nairobi government

Polycarp Igathe has quit his position as CEO of Vivo Energy Kenya after being named as running mate for the Nairobi governor seat, reports Nairobi News.

After Mike Sonko, candidate to become governor of Kenya´s capital city, chose Polycarp Igathe as running mate, the CEO of Vivo Energy said he would remain on his post until after the elections, provoking a boycott to the company that started on Twitter. Twenty-four hours later he announced his resignation.

“I have taken a lead of faith; I have left a job in the private sector to come into the political arena because I represent all small, medium and big business interest who clearly know this city is 60% of the GDP of our country,” said Igathe at the Jubilee party headquarters.

Vivo Energy Kenya distributes and markets Shell-branded fuels and lubricants. In the last four years the retailer has increased the number of Shell service stations in Kenya by 54%, from 112 to 172.

Sonko, along with Igathe, has promised to tackle corruption, improve garbage collection, restructure the City Inspectorate Department and address drainage and cleanliness of the growing Kenyan city.