The government has issued a directive barring civil servants from engaging in harambees. This aims to establish a framework for monitoring compliance. Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, emphasizes that the tradition of harambees, which dates back to independence, has been misused by government officials.
“Harambees have historically served as a means to foster self-help by pooling resources for socio-economic development and crisis mitigation,” Koskei noted. “However, recent instances have tarnished their reputation, linking them to corruption and misuse of public offices.”
The directive affects employees of various commissions including the Public Service Commission, Parliamentary Service Commission, Judicial Service Commission, Teachers Service Commission, and National Police Service Commission. In collaboration with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the government plans to establish an institutional framework to ensure adherence.
Koskei also highlighted President William Ruto’s interim administrative directive pending the enactment of legislation to facilitate structured and transparent contributions. He underscored the constitutional obligation for public officers to uphold national principles. And also governance values, citing Article 10 and relevant legislation.
“All officers must adhere strictly to ethical standards. Also ensuring compliance with this directive among themselves and those under their supervision,” Koskei stressed.
President Ruto has instructed Attorney-General Justin Muturi to prepare legislation for structured contributions towards public, charitable, and philanthropic causes. This move follows allegations of misuse of public funds linked to harambees involving close allies of the President.
Additionally, Koskei announced measures to streamline the number of advisors for Cabinet Secretaries in compliance with the President’s directive to reduce their numbers by 50%. This includes limiting personal staff attached to each CS to two advisors.
“These measures are part of broader austerity efforts aims at enhancing government efficiency and fiscal discipline,” Koskei affirmed. Read Also
