As per the publication by Nation Africa, a controversial plan to reduce the powers of the Public Service Commission (PSC) and give more authority over civil service appointments to the Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, has sparked intense debate.
The move, which sources claim is being pushed secretly, has raised serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and the future of Kenya’s public service.
Reports indicate that the proposed changes would take away the PSC’s constitutional role in overseeing recruitment, promotions, and disciplinary actions in the civil service. Instead, these powers would be given to Koskei, who currently serves as the Head of Public Service.
Those in favor of the plan argue that it would make decision-making faster and improve efficiency in managing civil servants.
However, critics believe that this is an attempt to concentrate power in the executive branch, weakening the independence of the PSC. They argue that if the changes are implemented, it could lead to political interference in appointments, opening the door to favoritism and patronage.
This would destroy the merit-based system that the PSC was created to protect, making civil service jobs available only to those with political connections.
The alleged plan has been met with strong opposition from various groups, including Members of Parliament, civil society organizations, and unions representing civil servants.
Many of them question whether such changes are even legal, considering that the Constitution guarantees the PSC’s independence. Some argue that if the government wants to improve efficiency, it should strengthen institutions rather than weaken them.
“Any attempt to weaken the PSC is an attack on good governance and accountability. The public service must remain independent and free from political control,” said a senior official from the Kenya National Union of Civil Servants.
Despite the criticism, some government officials and supporters of the plan believe that the PSC is slow and bureaucratic, delaying crucial appointments and decisions.
They claim that giving Koskei more power would help make the civil service more responsive to government priorities. They argue that having a centralized system under the Head of Public Service would eliminate unnecessary delays caused by PSC procedures.
If this plan goes through, it could have serious effects on governance and the public service in Kenya. Critics worry that it would remove important checks and balances, allowing a few individuals in government to control hiring and promotions in the civil service.
On the other hand, supporters insist that this could improve service delivery and make government operations smoother.The debate also raises bigger questions about the separation of powers in Kenya’s government and how much influence the executive branch should have over independent commissions.
It also brings attention to the importance of public participation in governance matters, as changes of this magnitude should not be made behind closed doors.
For now, this issue remains a matter of speculation, but the possible impact on Kenya’s governance and civil service cannot be ignored. Many are waiting to see whether the government will push forward with the changes or if public pressure will force them to abandon the plan.
