Nairobi: Chief Justice Martha Koome has presided over the swearing-in of Public Service Commission (PSC) and Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) appointees. The event, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Monday, saw Mary Wanjira Kimonye sworn in as the Vice Chairperson of the PSC, along with seven other board members, including Harun Maalim Hassan, Mwanamaka Amani Mabruki, Francis Major, Dr. Irene Cherotich Asienga, Boya Molu, Joan Andisi Machayo, and Francis Otieno Owino.
According to Kenya News Agency, Sammy Chepkwony took an oath as the new SRC Chairperson, joined by board members Jane Gatakaa Njagi, Major General (Rtd) Martin Kizito Ong’onyi, Mohammed Aden Abdi, Geophrey Apolo Omondi, Dr. Gilda Odera, and Leonid Ashindu. Chief Justice Koome emphasized the importance of collaboration among state organs to effectively serve the public interest, stating, ‘The members of the public we serve do not care where the ball drops. All they want is distinguished service.’ She highlighted the need for efficiency and integrity in public service delivery and congratulated the newly appointed officials, reminding them of their substantial responsibilities.
Koome reiterated the significance of the PSC and SRC as vital institutions and cornerstones for equitable, transparent, and sustainable public management. She noted that these commissions were essential for achieving Kenya’s broader aspirations for a public service centered around the needs and welfare of its citizens, stating, ‘These commissions are crucial for realising the vision of a well-functioning public service.’
The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Service, Amos Gathecha, underscored the need for wise counsel from both commissions to support executive functions, stressing that the executive is not in competition with the commissions but aims to complement each other in fostering good governance.
PSC Chairperson Amb. Antony Muchiri reminded the new members of their responsibilities, urging them to remain impartial and resist political interference. The new SRC Chairperson, Sammy Chepkwony, laid out the commission’s priorities, emphasizing a commitment to fair consultation with state organs and citizens, with the goal of promoting fairness and equity in public service delivery.
Supreme Court Chief Registrar Fridah Mokaya emphasized the significance of cooperation among the Executive, Judiciary, and Legislature. She stated, ‘As the Judiciary, we appreciate our close working relationships with the PSC and SRC,’ adding that such collaboration is vital for the effective delivery of services to the people of Kenya.
