PSC Adds More Ruto Allies In Shortlist For PS Jobs

The Public Service Commission (PSC) has increased the number of people shortlisted for the position of Principal Secretaries (PSs), days after it named 477 people for the roles.

In the amended list released on Saturday, October 8, 585 candidates have been shortlisted for the top jobs and some of them are allies of President William Ruto.

Among 108 new additions include former Nominated Senator Isaac Mwaura and former Nominated MP David ole Sankok, Former Ambassador to Pakistan Prof Julius Bitok, Former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal, former Nairobi deputy governor Jonathan Mueke, as well as former Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi.

Former Nominated MP, David Sankok. /FILE

Other new additions include IEBC Commissioner Molu Boya, former Kakamega Governor Ken Lusaka's wife, Margaret Nafula Makelo and Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO, Dr Betty Addero Radier.

PSC explained that it had recalled the initial list to make the selection process more inclusive.

"The Commission has reviewed the number of shortlisted candidates to deepen inclusivity in regards to gender, the marginalised and minority groups.

"Also considered in the revised list are the youth and Persons Living With Disability (PLWD) in accordance with Article 232 (h) of the Constitution," the notice read in part.

Prominent Kenyans who had earlier been shortlisted included outgoing Health Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Mercy Mwangangi and Mary Wanyonyi, the wife of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission chairperson, Wafula Chebukati.

Others listed included Housing, Agriculture and ICT PSs, Charles Hinga, Francis Owino and Jerome Ochieng, among allies of former President Uhuru Kenyatta who served in various capacities.

Esther Koimett (Broadcasting and Telecommunications), Peter Kaberia (Industrialisation), Julius Jwan (Education), Saitoti Torome (Planning), and Nelson Marwa (Social Protection) were other PSs in Uhuru's government who made the shortlist.

Other prominent names included Standard Media Group (SMG) managing editor, Andrew Tanui Kipkoech, director of the PSC corporate communications Browne Kutswa, former Nairobi Deputy Governor Jonathan Mueke, Daystar University Vice Chancellor Prof Peter Laban Ayiro and IEBC communications manager Tabitha Mutemi, a member of the Media Council of Kenya (MCK).

How To Send Views on Shortlisted PSs

The commission has similarly invited members of the public to send their views on the suitability of the shortlisted candidates to [email protected].

Members of the public have been advised to share their sentiments on the 477 names before Wednesday, October 12 when the interviews start as part of public participation in the hiring. The selection interviews will be at PSC head office in Nairobi.

Names of successful applicants with them be submitted to Ruto for nomination. 

Public Service Commission (PSC) offices in Nairobi. /FILE