Naivasha: Deputy Head of the Public Service (DHOPS), Amos Gathecha, has urged public servants to uphold moral ethics in their line of duty. Gathecha emphasized the importance of maintaining high ethical standards, discipline, and fairness while serving the Kenyan populace across various state agencies and departments.
According to Kenya News Agency, Gathecha made these remarks at a meeting held in Naivasha, attended by CEOs, chairpersons, and vice chairpersons of numerous state agencies and departments. He commended the State's efforts to instill governance ethics in public affairs management. Gathecha highlighted the necessity of unity between Chairs and CEOs, stating that such cooperation enhances efficiency, while discord can lead to stagnation in public institutions.
Gathecha stressed the importance of the Chair-CEO partnership for effective strategy execution and institutional stability. He warned against executive overreach by boards and the misuse of public resources, emphasizing that boardrooms should reflect integrity rather than serve as stages for personal egos. He stated, "Leadership is stewardship, our duty is to hold institutions in trust, keep the lanes clear, and let results, not rhetoric, do the talking."
He also outlined measures to translate principles into action, proposing standards to strengthen performance and clarify governance. Agendas and minutes would delineate roles clearly, with boards responsible for direction and oversight and management for execution. Additionally, board papers would be distributed seven days ahead, barring any exceptions approved by the Chair.
Gathecha further advocated for transparency in procurement processes, ensuring engagements are minuted and policy-compliant. Performance contracts would include Key Performance Indicators, baselines, and timelines, with mid-year reviews to track progress. He affirmed that whistleblowers would receive protection through confidential reporting, prompt investigations, and communicated outcomes.
At the conclusion of his address, the DHOPS urged leaders to prioritize legacy over luxury, purpose over politics, and service over self, encouraging a focus on stewardship, partnership, and tangible results.