NAIROBI, Kenya – The Public Service Commission (PSC) has defended its decision to shortlist individuals above 60 years for Principal Secretary (PS) positions, dismissing concerns that the move violates retirement policies.
In a statement responding to public criticism, PSC clarified that the mandatory retirement age of 60 applies only to public officers on permanent and pensionable terms—not to state officers such as PSs, who are appointed on contract.
“The 60-year rule applies to public officers on permanent and pensionable terms of service. It doesn’t apply to state officers,” PSC’s Director of Public Communication, Browne Kutswa, said.
He emphasized that the recruitment process adhered to legal provisions and that the commission had acted within its mandate.
The decision, however, appears to contradict President William Ruto’s directive last year that public servants aged 60 and above should retire without extensions.
The President had argued that retaining retirees in public service blocks opportunities for younger professionals.
A recent PSC report revealed that at least 1,400 government employees are still in service despite surpassing the retirement threshold, with public universities leading the count at 808.
State corporations, ministries, and independent commissions also house a significant number of over-60 officers.
State House topped the list of government offices employing retirees, with 47 staff members above the retirement age.
Other departments with notable numbers include the Foreign Affairs Ministry (22), Medical Services (19), and Internal Security (13).
The presence of older employees in public service has sparked debate over youth representation in government jobs.
The PSC report indicated that only 28% of public sector jobs are held by youth, with the majority of employees aged between 19 and 46 years.
