By AUGUSTINE ODUOR
The Commission on Administrative Justice has petitioned President Uhuru Kenyatta to move swiftly and avert a looming crisis at the Teacher’s Service Commission (TSC).
“The dangers of crippling an important institution as TSC in this transition period is too costly to fathom,” said chairperson of the Commission on Administrative Justice, Otiende Omollo.
In his letter dated May 17, Omollo advises the President to submit three fresh names from the shortlist to be approved by Members of Parliament.
The educationist James Kamunge’s panel that conducted the interviews last year compiled the list.
The letter is copied to House Speaker Justin Muturi and the Attorney General Githu Muigai.
MPs last year rejected the first list of names proposed by President Kibaki. After a protracted court battle, another set of names were rejected with only one recommended for appointment.
This is because a ruling by Justice Majanja directed that the President nominates “fresh” names from the shortlisted and interviewed candidates in accordance with section 8(11) of the TSC Act 2012 to fill the slots.
This meant that the replacement of the three positions should be done by “fresh” names (not rejected ones) from the names on the list Kamunge’s panel proposed.
Omollo says any further delay may paralyse operations at the TSC and noted that in doing so, merit, gender and regional balance be adhered to.
