President William Ruto has ordered all public institutions to adopt merit-based hiring and promotions, warning that non-performing civil servants will be removed from the public service as the government pushes for greater productivity and accountability. Breaking It Down Speaking during the National Productivity and Performance Conference in Nairobi on Friday, June 19, Ruto said all independent commissions and public institutions must ensure
06/19/26 • 128 Views
President William Ruto has ordered all public institutions to adopt merit-based hiring and promotions, warning that non-performing civil servants will be removed from the public service as the government pushes for greater productivity and accountability.
🇰🇪 Breaking It Down
Speaking during the National Productivity and Performance Conference in Nairobi on Friday, June 19, Ruto said all independent commissions and public institutions must ensure only the most qualified individuals are hired into public service.
"It is our expectation that all independent commissions and public service institutions hire on merit, fairness, and transparency so that only the most competent people get the opportunity to serve," the President said.
Ruto also directed that promotions in the public service should be tied to measurable results rather than the length of time an employee has served.
📌 What You Need to Know
"Promotion at work must be based on demonstrated results and never on mere longevity," he stated, directing the Public Service Commission (PSC) to immediately adopt the directives.
The President further tasked the PSC, independent commissions, and all public institutions with ensuring that the national values and principles outlined in Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution become the standard for every public office.
At the same time, Ruto warned that government workers who fail to meet expectations would face consequences, while those who excel would be rewarded.
"We will reward performers and innovators, and we will sanction non-performers without apology," he warned.
The Head of State also called for greater adoption of technology across government institutions, saying the state would continue investing in digital systems and human capital to improve service delivery .
Further, he urged public servants to embrace upskilling and reskilling to remain competitive in a rapidly changing work environment, particularly as artificial intelligence continues to reshape workplaces around the world.
📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke






