- "There has been a lacuna and disconnect between what government is doing because there's a lot that has not been said because there was no a point person to do that."
- "There has also been a challenge of how government has related with the media that we also need to improve."
Image: FELIX KIPKEMOI
Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura has vowed to exercise his full duties diligently in his new position.
Speaking during an interview on Tuesday night on K24, Mwaura said that he would fill the existing gap that has been in existence between the government and Kenyans.
"There has been a lacuna and disconnect between what government is doing because there's a lot that has not been said because there was no a point person to do that," he said.
Highlighting another 'headache' that he seeks to cure, the former Nominated Senator revealed there is a big challenge in how government relates with media.
"There has also been a challenge of how government has related with the media that we also need to improve. I’m going to play that role to ensure the two are at a good space," Mwaura added.
Mwaura was last week appointed as Kenya's fifth government spokesman.
He was among the 50 Chief Administrative Secretaries (CAS) appointed by President William Ruto in March whose appointments were ruled as unconstitutional by the High Court.
Mwaura said as the Government spokesman, he will play three key roles; Inform Kenyans about what the government is doing and its intentions, explain government actions, and generate news within the government.
"I want to make Kenyans have a government that is more accountable as a spokesman. Kenyans have a right to have more accountable information. It is their right as per Article 35 of the constitution to access information," he added.
The Government spokesman position was previously held by Colonel (Rtd) Cyrus Oguna, who is the current Siaya County Chief of Staff.
Early this year, the Public Service Commission while advertising for the job also revealed the hefty salary and allowances the holder of the office enjoys.
Basic salary ranges from Sh292,765 - 576,120 per month, house allowance Sh100,000 per month, entertainment allowance Sh100,000, extraneous allowance Sh100,000, and domestic servant allowance Sh100,000.
Government spokespersons also enjoy a leave allowance as per the regulation of the civil service, and medical cover provided by the government.
Apart from being degree holders, the official must demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the national development goals, policies, and objectives, including the government's transformation agenda.
One must also be fluent in both Swahili and English.
"For appointment as Government Spokesperson, a candidate must have served for a minimum period of ten (10) years as a media or communication practitioner, three (3) of which should have been in the grade of Deputy Director, CSG 6/Job Group 'R' and above or in comparable and relevant.
The job entails; advising government officials on public relations and media strategies, publicising government programmes through the media and in communities, and collaborating with government agencies and departments to coordinate messaging.
The office holder also monitors news coverage and tracks public perception of government policies and initiatives, responding to questions from the media about government actions, drafting and distributing statements on behalf of the government, and providing timely and accurate dissemination of information.