A new County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Industrialization and Wildlife, Charles Birech was sworn in during a solemn ceremony presided over by Kericho Resident Magistrate Felisters Nekesa.
Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai, County Executive Committee Members, Members of the County Assembly, the County Attorney Gideon Mutai and other senior county officials graced the ceremony
Birech in his maiden speech promised to steer the docket to greater heights pledging to modernize markets, promote industrial investment and ensure wildlife matters were addressed while supporting thousands of small-scale traders whose livelihoods depend on county-managed economic spaces.
Resident Magistrate Nekesa said that the oath taken by the new CECM was not merely procedural but a firm undertaking to remain accountable to the public, observe ethical standards, uphold the rule of law and ensure that every decision made within the department advances the welfare of the people of Kericho.
At the same time, Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai disclosed that Birech’s appointment is a deliberate move aimed at strengthening the county’s development momentum, noting that the Trade docket plays a central role in stimulating economic activities, expanding market access and improving the business environment for both rural and urban traders.
He emphasized that Birech’s performance in the previous administration, where he also served as CECM, was exemplary, highlighting his ability to deliver key development projects, improve market infrastructure and ensure effective service delivery to the people of Kericho.
During the ceremony, Dr. Mutai also issued appointment letters to the newly established Selection Panel for the County Public Service Board, which he said will be responsible for overseeing a rigorous recruitment process for board members who will guide county staffing, discipline, promotions and overall human resource management.
The Selection Panel for the County Public Service Board will be chaired by Rosemary Chepkemoi Koech and will include private sector representative Ann Chepkirui Korir, Advocate Philip Langat, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) representative Rop John Franklyn and workers’ representative Hillary Kipkirui Rotich, who were all formally introduced during the ceremony.
Dr. Mutai pointed out that the panel is tasked with ensuring that the recruitment process adheres to principles of merit, fairness and professionalism so that the county secures a Public Service Board capable of strengthening governance structures and improving service delivery.
Meanwhile, the Governor also introduced the Selection Panel for the County Secretary and Head of Public Service, noting that the position is central to coordinating county departments, supervising senior officers and ensuring the smooth execution of county policies and programmes.
He said the second panel will be chaired by Rose Chepngeno Kaptich and will feature private sector representative David K. A. Siele, Advocate Caleb Cheruiyot Koech, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) representative Cherono Fransisca Koech and workers’ representative Alfred Cheruiyot Rop, who were all directed to commence their work without delay.
Mr. Birech, in his address following the oath-taking, said he was deeply grateful for the trust placed in him and committed to delivering programmes that support traders, enhance market safety, expand industrial linkages and create new economic opportunities for youth, women and small business operators across all sub-counties.
by Kibe Mburu
