Did government get CAS shortlist right? Nandi Senator Cherargei weighs in

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

The Public Service Commission (PSC) shortlist for Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) candidates continues to attract reactions from different quarters.

The PSC first released a list on Monday, February 20 with 224 candidates named.

Some politicians, former governors, former principal secretaries, journalists, and ambassadors made the cut.

The commission published in the newspapers an additional list on Wednesday, February 22.

Consequently, the list has grown to 240 candidates who are eyeing at least 25 CAS positions.

Debate is rife online on whether the president will make competency-based appointments.

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, appearing on Spice FM on Wednesday, said the names on the shortlist present an opportunity for President William Ruto to pick people who "believe in his vision".

Cherargei said the final list of successful applicants should contain more young people.

"Young people should be given an opportunity. These are positions that allow them to learn under Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries. The CAS post should be an avenue of tutelage to induct young people into managing country affairs," he said.

"If some of the loyalists will prove to be incompetent, they should be shown the door. However, [it should be noted that] someone can be competent and loyal [at the same time]," said Cherargei.

Politicians who unsuccessfully ran for seats in the 2022 General Election were listed as qualified candidates by the PSC.

They include Millicent Omanga, Cleophas Malala, Purity Ngirici, Catherine Waruguru, Charles Njagua Kanyi, Isaac Mwaura, and former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero.

Former governors Patrick Khaemba (Trans Nzoia), James Ongwae (Kisii), Moses Lenolkulal (Samburu), and Samuel Tunai (Narok) also made it to the list.

Former KNUT Secretary-General Wilson Sossion and digital strategist Dennis Itumbi have also been shortlisted.

The Employment and Labour Relations Court last week gave the green light to President Ruto to appoint CASs after throwing out a petition by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).

Justice Monica Mbaru ruled that PSC conducted adequate public participation while creating the positions.