Nyeri: Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has announced plans to introduce a clock-in system to monitor the attendance and performance of civil servants. The initiative aims to reinforce adherence to established policies and ethical standards within the public sector.
According to Kenya News Agency, the proposed system will ensure compliance with several key documents, including the 2016 Human Resource Policies Procedure Manual for Public Service, the Public Service Code of Conduct and Ethics of 2016, and the Induction Handbook for the Public Service 2017. The clock-in system is also intended to identify and address the issue of 'ghost civil servants'-those who clock in but leave their duties shortly thereafter. Public servants who report late may be classified as ghost workers, potentially risking their employment.
Ruku emphasized the importance of collaboration with supervisors across various administrative levels to implement an attendance register. This register is expected to ensure that each employee has a schedule of duties and adheres to the Staff Performance Appraisal System. He emphasized the responsibility of civil servants to be present during office hours, as they are remunerated from public funds.
The Cabinet Secretary made these remarks in Nyeri County during an unannounced visit to the Central Regional Headquarters. His visit revealed that most state department offices, except for the Huduma Centre and the Teachers Service Commission offices, were closed by 8 am. This contrasted with the punctuality of interns and students on attachment, highlighting a significant issue with government employees' attendance.
Ruku expressed concern over the need to potentially allocate additional resources to supervise non-performing officers, despite existing financial investments aimed at enhancing service delivery. He reiterated the ministry's commitment to taking necessary actions against those unwilling to fulfill their duties, in line with the president's directive for responsible public service.
The Cabinet Secretary called on civil servants to foster an environment conducive to attracting both local and foreign investors. He pointed out that inefficiencies in public service delivery contribute to diminished investor confidence and erode public trust in the administration.
Ruku urged the Regional and County Commissioners' offices to support efforts in ensuring diligent performance by public servants, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all civil servants in creating a favorable business environment in Kenya.