On Monday, March 17, 2025, President William Ruto turned down a request from outgoing National Police Service Commission (NPSC) members seeking government employment after their term ended.

During a farewell meeting at State House, NPSC Chairman Eliud Kinuthia urged the president to assist them in securing new positions within the government as their tenure was coming to a close.

Responding to the appeal, Ruto made it clear that his priority is addressing youth unemployment before considering job placements for former commission members.

“They have presented their final report, but they are also requesting jobs. As we approach the reality of unemployment, it is a difficult situation, Your Excellency,” Kinuthia stated.

Ruto’s Firm Response

While acknowledging the commissioners’ contributions over the past six years, the president reiterated his commitment to empowering young people first.

“I have many young people in need of jobs before I can think of you. However, I do recognize the importance of balancing youthful energy and experience with wisdom from our senior citizens. We will find a way for your expertise to continue benefiting the nation,” Ruto assured them.

The NPSC commissioners, who have served since their appointment in March 2019, have now completed their six-year term. The outgoing members include Chairman Eliud Kinuthia, Vice Chairperson Alice Otwala, and commissioners Eusebius Laibuta, Lilian Kiamba, John Ole Moyaki, and Edwin Cheluget.

Search for New Commissioners Underway

A selection panel has shortlisted 38 candidates to fill the upcoming vacancies in the National Police Service Commission.

According to a notice by the Public Service Commission on Saturday, March 15, 2025, nine candidates will be interviewed for the chairperson role, while 29 others are in the running for commissioner positions.

Notably, outgoing commissioners are barred from reapplying for their previous roles or the chairperson seat.

Interviews are scheduled to begin on Monday, March 24, 2025, with prominent candidates for the chairperson role, including former Busia Deputy Governor Kizito Wangalwa, former Kenya Law Reform Commissioner Doreen Nkatha Muthaura, and former Gatanga MP Humphrey Kimani Njuguna. Others in contention include ex-Devolution PS Micah Pkopus and former Judicial Service Commission Director Susan Oyatsi.

On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, additional interviews will take place, featuring candidates such as John Otieno Ondego, Margarete Wanjala, Komora Jilo, and John Mutegi.