Economy

Q&A with PSC chair Margaret Kobia

Why the readvertisements?

There were questions of why we were advertising before the new administration was known as well as the structure and issues of public participation. We have extended by one week so that other people with the capability and competence can apply.

Is it by coercion from some quarters?

No we are not under pressure from anybody. We just want to give a chance to more qualified people. We have received 1,301 applications, including from PSs, parastatal heads and private sector executives. They are competitive positions and extending the period by a week will enhance this. Those talking of lists elsewhere should know that under the constitution only PSC can forward the names to the President and not vice versa.

Is it likely to delay the appointments?

Not quite. After the applications close, we will short list. We can come up with the final list even without interviewing to shorten the process. We would then forward the pool of names to the President who would pick the list and forward to Parliament for approval.

What structure are you working with?

We are looking at forwarding 66 names, three for each ministry going by the maximum of 22 ministries. We are looking at two weeks or so.

And public participation?

Floating the positions for applications is itself involves the public. Parliament represents the people and will also invite the public to comment on the nominees forwarded by the President.

Are there other guiding principles?

As the human resource department of the executive, PSC has a duty to support government agenda by providing competent personnel in line with the constitution. The list will also take care to have a national outlook including from marginalized groups, women, youth and the disabled.