The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Labour, chaired by Hon. Karemba Muchangi (Runyenjes), has concluded approval hearings for nominees seeking appointment as Vice-Chairperson and Members of the Public Service Commission (PSC).

Ms. Mary Wanjira Kimonye, the nominee for Vice-Chairperson, acknowledged challenges in human resource development within the public sector. 

While responding to Members questions regarding the duplication of roles within the Public Service Commission. Ms. Kimonye highlighted the need to continuously redefine roles to avoid duplication and resource misallocation.

She also pledged to strengthen the PSC internship program, terming it a vital tool for integrating graduates into the job market. 

“The program shapes career paths and enhances graduates’ competitiveness. We do not prepare them to be absorbed into public service but also to be competitive in the private sector,” she added.

She also called for a cultural shift in public service to combat corruption, arguing that while Kenya has sufficient anti-corruption legislation, a lack of honesty and public trust remains a significant hurdles.

On her part, Ms. Mwanamaka Amani Mabruki, nominee for Member of the Public Service Commission (PSC) emphasized the need to sensitize public servants on prioritizing service delivery. “Focusing on seamless service delivery will restore public confidence in government institutions,” she noted.

The third nominee, Mr. Harun Maalim Hassan representing Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), urged greater inclusivity in public service. He highlighted the importance of sensitizing PWDs about available opportunities and proposed stronger laws to safeguard marginalized groups’ interests.

“Enactment of such legislation gives hope and assurance to PWDs, empowering them to take up roles in both public and private sectors,” said Mr. Hassan.

Mr. Francis Meja, former Director-General of the NTSA and a member nominee cited his experience in establishing the authority and pushing for critical policy developments. He assured the Committee that, if appointed, he would ensure PSC policies align with the Constitution to protect public interests.

Dr. Irene Cherotich Asienga, OGW, highlighted her experience with the Commission on Revenue Allocation, particularly in crafting revenue-sharing formulas. She stressed the need for resource efficiency and tackling corruption to address challenges such as ghost workers and fake certificates.

Other nominees who appeared before the Committee include former IEBC Commissioner Mr. Boya Molu,  Ms. Joan Andisi Machayo and Dr. Francis Otieno Owino called for  automation in performance management and stricter recruitment processes to address irregularities and reduce the bloated wage bill.

The nominees further pledged to reform the public service by improving efficiency, enhancing transparency, and ensuring inclusivity for all Kenyans.

Committee Chair, Hon. Karemba said that the Committee on Labour will prepare a report that will be tabled before the House. “This Committee is expected retreat and prepare a report that will be submitted to the National Assembly for final approval before the successful nominees assumes office,” he stated.