NAIROBI, Kenya – In a sweeping move to restore accountability and efficiency within the public sector, the Government has suspended all new and ongoing recruitments.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria announced on Friday that a comprehensive audit will be conducted, accompanied by a thorough cleaning of all payrolls.
These changes come in the wake of President William Ruto’s withdrawal of the Financial Bill 2024, following three weeks of intense protests.
The demonstrations resulted in the deaths of more than 35 people, left hundreds injured, and caused extensive property damage.
“In view of expected budget cuts in the ongoing budget rationalization, I urge you to halt any new recruitment and any that is ongoing and has not been concluded,”
Kuria stated in a letter to Treasury Cabinet Secretary Prof Njuguna Ndungu.
This directive underscores the urgency and gravity of the Government’s efforts to curb financial mismanagement and ensure responsible use of public resources.
Kuria further emphasized that the suspension is part of a broader strategy to enhance the integrity of the public service sector.
The planned audit aims to identify and address any discrepancies, particularly focusing on eradicating ghost workers from the payroll.
This initiative seeks to streamline government operations and bolster public trust in the administration.
The Government’s move to suspend recruitments is a response to mounting concerns over Kenya’s escalating debt and widespread resource wastage.
The payroll audit is expected to reveal inefficiencies and fraudulent activities that have long plagued the public service.
By addressing these issues, the Government aims to optimize resource allocation and ensure that public funds are utilized effectively.
“The audit will be meticulous and far-reaching, targeting all sectors of the public service,” Kuria explained. “Our goal is to ensure that every shilling spent is accounted for and that we eliminate any forms of corruption or mismanagement.”
The recent protests, sparked by the controversial Financial Bill 2024, highlighted the public’s frustration with the Government’s financial policies.
The Bill, which proposed significant tax increases, was met with fierce opposition, leading to widespread demonstrations.
The subsequent withdrawal of the Bill and the decision to suspend recruitments signal the Government’s acknowledgment of these concerns and its commitment to addressing them.
As Kenya grapples with its financial challenges, the suspension of recruitments and the payroll audit represent a critical step towards reform.
By cleaning up the payroll and ensuring that only legitimate employees are compensated, the Government aims to reduce unnecessary expenditures and enhance fiscal responsibility.
The public service sector’s reform is a pivotal aspect of the Government’s broader strategy to restore economic stability and public confidence.
