The Public Service Commission (PSC) in Kenya plays a vital role in ensuring the effective operation and ethical standards of the public service. Its functions and powers are drawn from the Constitution and the Public Service Commission Act, granting it both oversight and enforcement authority across public institutions.
Table of Contents:
Core Functions of the Public Service Commission
The PSC is mandated to perform the following functions:
- Ensure that the public service adheres to the national values and principles outlined in Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution.
- Hear and determine appeals from county governments concerning matters related to public service.
- Perform any additional functions and exercise powers given through national legislation.
However, these functions do not apply to the following public offices:
- State offices
- Diplomatic or consular representatives (e.g., high commissioners and ambassadors)
- Offices under the following bodies:
- Parliamentary Service Commission
- Judicial Service Commission
- Teachers Service Commission
- National Police Service Commission
- County government offices
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Powers of the Public Service Commission
Under the PSC Act, the Commission is empowered to:
- Issue summons necessary for executing its mandate.
- Require sworn or affirmed statements and administer oaths.
- Lawfully collect relevant data and information, including official records and documents.
- Conduct interviews with individuals or groups related to its functions.
- Invite individuals to attend Commission sessions and compensate their attendance where applicable.
- Compel the presence of individuals who fail to respond to the Commission’s requests.
- Acquire, manage, or dispose of both movable and immovable property.
- Carry out audits in public institutions to assess compliance with constitutional values and principles.
- Request special reports from public institutions on matters related to their compliance.
- Execute any lawful actions necessary for the full discharge of its functions as a corporate body.
Conclusion
The Public Service Commission is central to upholding professionalism, integrity, and constitutional values in Kenya’s public service. It not only investigates and enforces standards but also ensures accountability in both national and county public institutions.
Featured Image
Caption: The Public Service Commission headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya.
