Navigating Governance Challenges: Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka Inspires at County Governance Convention

Nairobi, 20th February 2024.

By Maximilla WAFULA & Patrick KIMANZI 

County Diary Reporter.

In a resounding keynote address at the County Governments Governance Convention, H.E. Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka shed light on the pivotal role of professionals in governance. Addressing a spectrum of challenges, from corruption to employment disparities, the convention emerged as a crucible for collaboration and renewed commitment to excellence in governance. As the convention unfolded, the call to instill honesty and fortify governance practices resonated, signaling a future where public institutions radiate with integrity, accountability, and devoted service to the people.

With great honor and a deep sense of responsibility as a member of the Institute of Certified Secretaries, Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka inaugurated the COUNTY GOVERNMENTS GOVERNANCE CONVENTION. The event served as a forum for collective introspection, collaboration, and strategic planning to enhance governance in counties and the nation at large.

Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka highlighted the crucial role played by county governments, county assemblies, and county public service boards (CPSBs) in shaping the governance landscape. These entities, within the devolved framework, serve as the primary conduits for delivering services to ordinary citizens, directly impacting the quality of service delivery.

The keynote underscored the considerable power wielded by CPSBs, appointed by the Executive and approved by the County Assembly, in hiring, promoting, and disciplining county public service employees. Sections 59–86 of the County Governments Act No. 17 of 2012 delineate their duty, emphasizing the role of meritocracy, accountability, and openness in public institutions.

Amidst the delicate autonomy framework, Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka emphasized the need for unwavering commitment to corporate governance principles and established procedures. The convention's theme, "Professionalism and Good Governance in A Political Context," was deemed fitting, addressing the delicate balance required by county government officials, particularly CPSBs, in navigating the expectations of the Executive and the County Assembly.

The extensive duties assigned to CPSBs, influencing human resource management, HR policies, strategic planning, hiring, promotion, and performance management, were highlighted. Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka called for a shared commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards and advancing good governance practices.

Acknowledging the accomplishments of CPSBs since their establishment in 2013, Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka also addressed persistent challenges, ranging from election malpractice to weakened institutional autonomy. Accusations of corruption, resource mismanagement, and discriminatory employment practices were revealed in recent publications, prompting investigations by various independent organizations.

Critical questions were posed about the issues afflicting counties, professional scarcity, governance mechanisms, and the proclivity for poor judgment or greed. Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka urged immediate measures to rescue and revitalize governance structures, referencing recent reports on falsified academic credentials and concerning patterns in employment diversity among counties.

The keynote proposed solutions, including cascading information and conducting verifications at the county level, due diligence during hiring, and the adoption of incentives for excellent leadership and ethical standards. Dr. Kalonzo Musyoka commended the ICS for thought leadership, the Champions of Governance awards, and training on sound governance practices, urging professionals to play a lead role in defining 

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