In a significant development, Chief Justice Martha Koome, as the chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), has appointed Spencer Ololchike Sankale, the whistleblower in the Mara Heist scandal, as a member of the Tax Appeals Tribunal for a three-year term. This appointment, along with 11 others, was made known through a gazette notice dated May 19.

The newly appointed members officially assumed their roles on May 10, 2023, joining an existing team of ten members whose terms began in June 2022.

Sankale's journey began when he exposed an alleged financial scandal at Maasai Mara University, where he served as the Chief Finance Officer. As a result, he was dismissed from his position on June 19, 2021. The scandal implicated Vice-Chancellor Prof Mary Walingo, who was subsequently suspended. However, on January 19, 2023, the Employment and Labour Relations Court reinstated Walingo following a decision by the Public Service Commission in September 2022 to overturn the university's termination of her employment.

The dismissal letter sent to Sankale by the university council accused him of committing nine offenses related to gross misconduct. These included incitement of staff and the general public against the university, gross insubordination, failure to act in the university's best interest, defamation, and disregard for university standards and procedures. Citing Section 44 (4), (d), and (g) of the Employment Act 2007 (revised 2012), the council summarily terminated his employment.

However, Sankale's fortunes have taken a positive turn with his appointment to the Tax Appeals Tribunal by Chief Justice Koome. Alongside his fellow appointees, Sankale will serve in this capacity for a period of three years, contributing his expertise and experiences to the tribunal's proceedings.

This appointment marks a significant step forward for Sankale and serves as recognition for his efforts in exposing the alleged corruption scandal at Maasai Mara University. As a member of the Tax Appeals Tribunal, Sankale will have the opportunity to continue serving the public interest and contribute to the administration of justice in Kenya's tax system.