Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-03-15 09:53:29
Deputy Government Spokesperson Gabriel Muthuma raised concerns on Friday, March 15, about Cabinet Secretaries choosing to hire advisors directly from their own pockets rather than following a competitive appointment process. In an interview with the media, Muthuma emphasized the importance of addressing issues that require the expertise of advisors, even if the costs are not borne by taxpayers. He stressed the need for a structured procedure outlined by the Head of Public Service for hiring advisors, to ensure transparency and accountability in the process.
Muthuma acknowledged that while some advisors may be necessary, there are specific guidelines that CSs must adhere to in terms of the number of advisors they can hire and the terms of their appointment. He mentioned that CSs receive a letter from the Public Service Commission detailing the protocols to be followed, and in some cases, advisors are hired using personal funds. President William Ruto has been working towards streamlining government structures to prevent such practices from taking place.
The Deputy Government Spokesperson highlighted President Ruto’s firm stance on maintaining procedural integrity within the government, citing his warnings to CSs during a Cabinet retreat in Naivasha. Ruto cautioned against falling prey to unscrupulous individuals who might exploit his name for personal gain. Muthuma emphasized the role of the Public Service Commission as an independent entity responsible for vetting candidates to ensure the right skills are matched with government positions and that sensitive information is safeguarded.
Muthuma’s comments were made in response to a report by the PSC, which revealed that CSs had appointed 250 advisors without following the necessary appointment procedures for the fiscal year ending June 2023. The report indicated that these advisors did not undergo a fair and competitive selection process, as vacancies were not advertised, and qualified candidates did not have the opportunity to vie for the positions.
President Ruto’s efforts to establish clear guidelines for advisor appointments and uphold procedural standards within the government reflect a commitment to accountability and transparency. By insisting on adherence to the protocols set forth by the Head of Public Service and the PSC, the government aims to ensure that appointments are made based on merit and qualifications, rather than personal connections or financial arrangements. Muthuma’s statements underscore the administration’s dedication to fostering a professional and efficient work environment within the public sector, guided by principles of fairness and integrity.
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