Nyeri: Heads of government departments and agencies could soon find themselves in trouble for failing to attend national day celebrations at the counties. Central Regional Commissioner (RC), Joshua Nkanatha, emphasized that attendance of these events is not optional but a civic responsibility that showcases support for the government by civil servants.
According to Kenya News Agency, Nkanatha, speaking in Nyeri during the Central Regional Implementation Coordination and Management Committee (NGD-RICMC) meeting, stated that attendance by government officers sets a positive example for the public and highlights the importance of patriotism. He expressed concern over the poor attendance by government officials, noting that many treat these events casually by sending junior officers or skipping them altogether.
Nkanatha remarked, 'Traditionally all heads of departments used to attend these celebrations without fail. But nowadays, these celebrations are only being attended by security agencies and National Government Administrative Officers. We will be heading to Kitui for the Mashujaa day celebrations, and all the Principal Secretaries, all the Chief Executive Officers, all the chairpersons of commissions, and all the Cabinet Secretaries will be in attendance, but some of you will be at home and leave the county celebration for the county commissioner and the county security team.'
He further cautioned that attending national day celebrations is mandatory, warning that those who do not wish to attend should relinquish their position as heads of departments. Additionally, Nkanatha warned officers against engaging in graft, stating that the government is collaborating with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate corruption within the service.
Addressing the issue of lethargy in the civil service, Nkanatha noted that some officers are abusing their working hours by neglecting their duties. He warned that the government is committed to restoring discipline within the civil service to prevent time theft, which he equated to corruption.
The RC also advised public servants to serve the public impartially, irrespective of societal status, and cautioned against being influenced by political agendas. He reminded civil servants of their duty to serve the government with impartiality and dedication, urging them to adhere to constitutional and Public Service Commission guidelines.
Nkanatha encouraged officers to mentor newly recruited staff, emphasizing the importance of instilling professionalism and integrity to improve public service delivery. He asserted, 'We are supposed to mentor the officers that the government is giving us. Try to make that officer that was recently employed a better person than you. Please do not mislead them, even before they know what they are supposed to do.'
He concluded by highlighting the importance of leaving the public service in capable hands, reminding officers that they will eventually seek services from those they are currently mentoring.