PSC Issues Tough Warning as Deadline for Compliance Nears: Public Servants Risk Sanctions if They Fail to Meet New Requirements
The PSC insists that the reforms are crucial for the modernization of public institutions and that staff should serve with integrity and accountability.
Dr. Margaret Kobia, the Chairperson of the PSC, issued a strict directive, warning that the Commission would not brook indifference or delays. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
The Public Service Commission has directed that all public servants strictly adhere to newly introduced operation and performance standards before the deadline. The Commission also warned that any public servant who disregards the instructions will face disciplinary consequences.
The notice, circulated earlier in the week, spells out several obligations aimed at aligning public service operations with national reforms. These include timely submission of departmental work plans, full adherence to set ethical codes of conduct, and compulsory completion of newly introduced training programmes. According to the PSC, these measures are designed to enhance efficiency, fortify accountability, and restore public confidence in government service delivery.
Dr. Margaret Kobia, the Chairperson of the PSC, issued a strict directive, warning that the Commission would not brook indifference or delays.
“The Commission will not tolerate laxity or non-compliance,” she stated. “Each public servant is required to meet the outlined guidelines. Employees who fail to comply should expect disciplinary action ranging from warnings to suspension or even removal from service, depending on the extent of violation.”
Ministries and state departments have been directed to compile and submit detailed compliance reports before the end of the month to ensure smooth implementation of the directive. The Internal monitoring and audit exercises have reportedly started, with preliminary evaluations showing mixed results. While some officers and institutions have made major strides toward meeting the requirements, others appear off the mark, a factor that has raised concern among supervisors and departmental heads.
The public is still divided over this directive. Some Kenyans praise the PSC for trying to instill discipline and professionalism among workers within the public service, stating that government offices have been characterized by inefficiencies and lax attitudes for many years. Others remain wary of inconsistent enforcement or the unfair sanctioning of employees who might need more time or support in order to comply.
Despite the differences, the PSC insists that the reforms are crucial for the modernization of public institutions and that staff should serve with integrity and accountability.
“This initiative is not intended to victimise anyone,” Dr. Kobia added. “It is about strengthening the values of public service and ensuring that government officers uphold the trust placed in them by the people.” With the deadline now imminent, increased activity is anticipated within government offices as departments scramble to fulfill the Commission’s stipulations. Whether the directive ushers in better standards of service delivery or generates controversy in its enforcement, only time will tell, but the PSC has given an indication that it will not retreat from the reform agenda.
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