MCK CEO David Omwoyo Shortlisted for Data Commissioner Interview
Omwoyo’s inclusion in the shortlist brings his experience in media regulation, journalism and data protection into the recruitment process.
MCK CEO David Omwoyo is among 13 candidates shortlisted for interviews for the position of Data Commissioner. Photo: The Star Kenya.
By Robert Mutasi
Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo has been shortlisted among 13 candidates for interviews for the position of Data Commissioner.
Omwoyo is scheduled to appear before the Public Service Commission (PSC) panel on Monday, October 5, 2026, as the recruitment process to replace the current Data Commissioner moves to the interview stage.
The PSC said it received 152 applications after advertising the position on August 25, 2026. The application period closed on September 14, paving the way for the Commission to assess the applications and shortlist candidates.
The interviews will take place at the PSC offices on Harambee Avenue in Nairobi. The shortlisted candidates have been instructed to report to the venue at least 20 minutes before their scheduled interview times.
Omwoyo’s inclusion in the shortlist brings his experience in media regulation, journalism and data protection into the recruitment process.
As head of the Media Council of Kenya, Omwoyo has been involved in discussions surrounding the relationship between media practice and data protection, particularly as journalists and media organisations increasingly handle personal information in their work.
MCK has worked with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) to sensitise journalists and media organisations on the Data Protection Act and their responsibilities when collecting, processing and publishing personal information.
Omwoyo has also participated in engagements focusing on privacy and data protection in the media sector.
During a Data Privacy Day engagement in 2025, he called on journalists to exercise caution when handling personal information and highlighted the importance of consent and the right to privacy.
The ODPC has also included Omwoyo in forums examining data protection and the media. He was listed as a speaker at the regulator’s 2026 Data Protection Conference in his capacity as MCK chief executive.
The other candidates shortlisted for the position are Nooseli Moses Lemayian, Otieno Oscar Onyango, Shalle Mohamed Abdi, Sitienei Lydia Chelagat, Nyale Duncan Kubahatisha, Kirwa Solomon, Anditi Stephen Odhiambo, Lobuin Isaac Eregae, Mbiuki Jasper Micheni, Cheronoh Lynneth, Abdi Mohamed Hussein and Nyongesa John Walubengo.
The PSC said the recruitment is being conducted in accordance with Section 6(2) of the Data Protection Act, which provides for the appointment of the Data Commissioner.
The successful candidate will head the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC), Kenya’s data protection regulator.
The office is responsible for overseeing compliance with the country’s data protection laws and regulations, while protecting individuals’ rights concerning their personal data.
The recruitment comes as the handling of personal information continues to affect several sectors, including journalism, financial services, technology, government services and digital platforms.
The interview stage will allow the PSC to assess the shortlisted candidates before the appointment process proceeds to the next stage.
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