President William Ruto has signalled that his administration may appoint a woman as the next chairperson of the Public Service Commission (PSC).
According to Ruto, women have consistently demonstrated strong leadership and excellence in various fields.
Speaking Thursday when he hosted the Tokyo world athletic championship medalists for breakfast at State House, the President praised women for their growing influence in leadership, education, and sports.
He said recent experiences had convinced him that women are equally capable, if not better, at performing tasks traditionally dominated by men.
“The last few days have been interesting for me. On Tuesday, I went to Umma University in Kajiado, and it was very interesting to me that a Muslim-based institution, the Vice Chancellor was a lady. Yesterday, when I attended the Nairobi International Trade Fair, the national chairperson of ASK was also a lady. And today, six out of the seven medalists we are celebrating are ladies,” Ruto said.
He added, “I am beginning to confirm that what men can do, ladies can do better. I know we are in the process of hiring the chairperson of our Public Service Commission (PSC). If I were asked for a recommendation, I would recommend a lady. I believe they would do us a great job.”
The current chairperson of the commission is set to leave office next year upon completing his six-year constitutional term.
He was sworn into office on December 22, 2021.
The PSC plays a pivotal role in managing human resource matters and discipline within the public service.
Under the Constitution, its functions and powers include establishing and abolishing offices in the public service, as well as exercising disciplinary control over officers and, where necessary, removing individuals from their positions.
The Commission is also tasked with promoting the national values and principles of governance outlined in Article 10 of the Constitution, and the values and principles of public service as stipulated in Article 232.
These include integrity, accountability, transparency, and equal opportunity.
Beyond disciplinary and regulatory roles, the PSC is mandated to spearhead the development of human resources within the public service.
It also reviews and advises the national government on conditions of service, the code of conduct, and the qualifications required for officers serving in different capacities.
Additionally, the Commission evaluates and reports to both the President and Parliament on how effectively the values and principles of governance and public service are being upheld across ministries and state agencies.
