Public Service CS Geoferry Ruku at Huduma Centre/FILE
Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku on Friday made surprise visits to the GPO and Eastleigh Huduma Centres in Nairobi.
The unannounced inspections are part of his ongoing efforts to assess service delivery firsthand and engage directly with frontline public servants.
CS Ruku praised the Huduma Centre staff for their professionalism, resilience, and innovation despite working under resource constraints.
“I am impressed by the level of professionalism and output I have witnessed here today. It is encouraging to see public servants doing more with less, showing that they are committed to serving Kenyans,” he said during a media briefing at the Eastleigh Huduma Centre.
While commending the workers, CS Ruku used the opportunity to call on the Public Service Commission (PSC) to uphold transparency and meritocracy in recruitment and promotions across government institutions.
“I want to emphasise that moving forward, recruitment and promotion in the public service must be merit-based. The era of rewarding incompetence is over,” he said.
The CS said his Ministry will continue conducting impromptu visits to government offices to foster accountability, enhance performance, and keep service delivery focused on citizens' needs.
He emphasised adherence to Article 232 of the Constitution, which outlines key public service values such as integrity, transparency, accountability, and efficient use of public resources.
Echoing President William Ruto’s message on integrity and performance, CS Ruku reminded all public officers that their positions are a duty, not an entitlement.
“Public service is not a privilege; it is a responsibility. Every officer must remember they are here to serve Kenyans first,” he stated.
He concluded by recognising public servants who consistently go beyond their duties.
“Those who work extra hard for the benefit of citizens are the true heroes of our public service. We must support and recognise them,” said Ruku.
The CS reaffirmed his Ministry’s commitment to making the public service more responsive and citizen-centred under the Huduma Smart Serikalini initiative.
“This initiative is about restoring trust, improving access, and ensuring that the services we deliver are timely, efficient, and people-focused. Huduma Serikalini is not just a slogan, it is our mission,” he said.
Ruku’s surprise visits and tough stance on accountability reflect a growing push to transform public sector culture and anchor it on integrity and service to citizens.
