West Pokot Governor, Simon Kachapin, has effected a major reshuffle of County Chief Officers, appointing eight new officers, while retaining eight others after a rigorous vetting process aimed at enhancing service delivery.
All serving Chief Officers were first required to vacate office and reapply for their positions afresh to allow fair consideration based on suitability, competence , and performance.
Speaking during the issuance of the appointment letters, yesterday, at the Governor’s County Residence grounds in Kapenguria town, Kachapin said the County had made significant strides in its leadership journey and congratulated the appointed Officers, noting that they were selected after careful consideration.
“I believe each of you possesses the competence, discipline, and commitment required to serve the people of West Pokot effectively,” said the Governor.
However, he emphasized that the appointments were not rewarded but the responsibilities, reminding the Officers that the letters they received symbolized trust bestowed upon them by his Administration and the people of West Pokot.
“Trust must be protected at all times,” he said, adding that his Administration is anchored on integrity, accountability, and service to the public.
Governor Kachapin stressed that public resources must be managed prudently, processes must remain transparent, and decisions must always be guided by the law and interests of citizens.
He warned that his Administration would not tolerate misconduct, corruption , or abuse of office.
On service delivery. the Governor noted that residents are interested in tangible results , not explanations.
“The people expect functional departments, timely services, and solutions to everyday challenges. as Chief Officers, you are the operational drivers of government. Delays inefficiency, and laxity will not be acceptable,” he said.
He further stated that performance would be closely monitored, with work plans annual targets expected to align with the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) and the Governor’s Development Agenda.
“These targets are not symbolic. You must meet and exceed them through commitment, innovation, and effective supervision,” he said, urging the officers to resolve challenges decisively and professionally.
Governor Kachapin also emphasized teamwork, noting that his government would only succeed if all departments worked as one unit, with a shared vision and collective responsibility.
He called for close collaboration between Chief Officers, County Executive Committee members, and all public servants.
“As you begin this journey, remember that leadership is about impact, not position. You will be judged by what you deliver, how you serve, and the legacy you leave behind,” he said.
He congratulated the new appointees and urged them to serve with integrity, urgency, and dedication to the people of West Pokot. The Governor also thanked the Public Service Board for executing its mandate and the County Assembly, through the Speaker, for timely vetting and approval of the Chief Officers in accordance with the law.
Newly posted West Pokot County Commissioner (CC), David Saruni, thanked Governor Kachapin for the warm welcome and opportunity to witness the appointment process.
He noted that this was his second tour of duty in the county, having previously served in Alale,Pokot North Sub-county, 17 years ago.
“I can see significant development progress in the County, which I believe has been driven by devolution,” said Saruni.
He pledged to work closely with County leadership to ensure effective service delivery and uplift the livelihoods of residents.
Saruni congratulated the newly appointed Chief Officers, describing them as qualified and capable of making a positive difference.
CC assured residents of strong collaboration between the national and county governments ,noting that both serve the same people.
“I am happy to be in west Pokot and I ask for your support as we work together to ensure citizens get value for their taxes,” he said.
West Pokot County assembly Majority Leader Martin Komong’iro welcomed the new chief officers and urged them to work diligently to deliver the governor’s agenda before the end of his term.
He likened their task to a relay race, saying they had been handed the final baton and must run with it to victory. He emphasized that there would be no room for laxity.
Komong’iro also welcomed the new County Commissioner and assured him of cooperation, noting the Assembly had worked well with the outgoing commissioner.
County Assembly Speaker, Fred Kaptui, said the Assembly had vetted the Chief Officers and found them qualified and capable.
He thanked the Governor for considering youth in the appointments, noting that members of the public were pleased with their inclusion.
Speaker assured the new Chief Officers of the Assembly’s support, urging them not to fear working with MCAs, as their shared mandate is to serve the interests of the people.
The Chief Officers took their Oath of Office during a ceremony held at the Governors County residence grounds, presided over by Kapenguria Law Courts Principal Magistrate, Stella Telewa.
By Anthony Melly
