A bold move has been made by President William Ruto, as he officially declares the position of Public Service Commission (PSC) chairperson vacant. This move has sparked curiosity and raises important questions about the future of Kenya's public service sector.
In a recent gazette notice, dated November 3, 2025, President Ruto invoked specific legal provisions to establish a selection committee for recruiting a new PSC chairperson. The PSC, an essential body established under the constitution, holds the responsibility of recruiting public servants, managing disciplinary processes, and upholding the core values of public service.
Here's where it gets interesting: the constitution mandates that commissioners, including the chairperson, serve a single non-renewable six-year term. So, why the sudden vacancy? President Ruto clarified that it's a legal requirement to issue a public notification within 14 days of such a vacancy.
"Pursuant to the Public Service Commission Act, the President must issue a public notification within fourteen days of a vacancy," the notice states.
Now, let's meet the panel appointed by President Ruto to find the next PSC chairperson. The panel consists of seven members, each representing different bodies and sectors. Arthur Osiya, Jane Joram, and Prof. Nura Mohammed represent the Parliamentary Service Commission, Public Service Commission, and Public Universities Council, respectively. Sylvester Ngei Kiini, Ruth Wambeti Ruraa, Nancy Oundo Dalla, and Elizabeth Chesang complete the panel, bringing expertise from the Kenya Accountants Act, professional societies, the Cabinet Secretary's office, and the private sector.
The panel's task is clear: announce the vacancy, shortlist qualified candidates, conduct interviews, and recommend suitable nominees to the President for appointment, subject to parliamentary approval.
But here's where it gets controversial... The PSC chairperson holds immense power and influence over public sector reforms. With ongoing government restructuring programs, including civil service rationalization and digital transformation, the next chairperson will play a pivotal role in shaping Kenya's public workforce and service delivery.
The announcement has set in motion a legal process to fill one of the most influential roles in the country. Once the panel completes its work, the President will forward the nominee to Parliament for vetting, ensuring a thorough and transparent process.
The current chairperson, Anthony Muchiri, was sworn into office in 2021. Under the constitution, the PSC's powers are extensive, including establishing and abolishing public service offices and exercising disciplinary control over officers. The Commission also promotes national values and principles of governance, as outlined in the constitution.
This move by President Ruto has sparked discussions and debates. What impact will the new PSC chairperson have on Kenya's public service sector? How will they navigate the ongoing reforms? These are questions that many Kenyans are asking.
And this is the part most people miss... The PSC chairperson's role goes beyond just recruitment and disciplinary actions. They are key to ensuring meritocracy, integrity, and inclusivity in government appointments, shaping the very fabric of Kenya's public service.
So, what do you think? Will the new PSC chairperson live up to the expectations and drive meaningful reforms? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
