Malava: The government has taken a significant step in enhancing local administration by appointing Assistant County Commissioners (ACCs) to three newly established sub-counties in the Malava constituency, Kakamega County. Western Regional Commissioner Irungu Macharia announced the deployment, stating that the Shivanga, Shirungu/Mugai, and Chesero divisions now have ACCs as part of the government's initiative to bring services closer to the people.
According to Kenya News Agency, Commissioner Macharia, during a public meeting at the Matsakha trading center, revealed that additional locations and sub-locations have been created in the area. He encouraged eligible candidates to apply for positions in these newly created administrative units, which are part of a directive from the Principal Secretary of the Interior, Dr. Raymond Omollo. Dr. Omollo's visit earlier this month underscored the national plan to establish 1,105 new administrative units, encompassing divisions, locations, and sub-locations in the 2024/2025 financial year.
In related developments, Commissioner Macharia highlighted changes in police recruitment, noting that the National Police Service (NPS) has transitioned to an online recruitment system to enhance efficiency. However, he emphasized that all standard requirements, including medical tests, remain mandatory to ensure only physically fit candidates are selected. He warned youth involved in substance abuse of the risks of exclusion from recruitment if medical tests reveal drug addiction.
The Regional Commissioner also addressed concerns from village elders, mentioning that the government has drafted a National Government Administration policy proposing a monthly allowance for village elders, pending parliamentary approval. Additionally, he noted that regulations on National Government Administrative Units prioritize community requests, security concerns, and population metrics in the creation of new administrative units.
At the event, National Police Service Commission western regional Coordinator Lilian Asienya shared that the Commission continues to gather public feedback on the new online recruitment process. The Commission aims to ensure transparency in recruitment and has received suggestions, including conducting medical tests on successful candidates locally and promptly releasing results to maintain fairness.