The Public Service Commission (PSC) has launched a three-day capacity-building forum in Machakos to strengthen the capacity of county governments in human resource management and handling of appeals.
The forum brings together County Public Service Boards (CPSBs), County Assembly Service Boards (CASBs) and County Executives from Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Vihiga, Nyamira and Nairobi.
Speaking on behalf of PSC Chief Executive Officer Paul Famba, Director John Njorio said the Commission’s appellate role is a constitutional safeguard that protects the rights of county public officers while promoting fairness and accountability.
“The appellate role is not only administrative in nature, but it is also a constitutional safeguard that protects the rights of all county public officers,” Njorio said.
He said the PSC (County Appeals Procedures) Regulations, 2022, provide a framework for resolving employer-employee disputes and promoting uniform standards in county human resource management.
Njorio noted that appeals filed under Section 77 of the County Governments Act may arise from recruitment, appointment, disciplinary action, remuneration, retirement and terminal benefits.
Representing PSC Chairperson Francis Meja, Commissioner Joan Machayo disclosed that as of August 31, 2026, the Commission had considered and determined 434 appeals and applications for review in the last financial year.
Machayo said the cases had exposed gaps in county human resource management, including failure by some counties to follow procedures provided for in law and in county human resource policies.
“Of great concern are instances where some counties fail to comply with provisions on filing of responses to appeals,” she said.
She warned that delayed or failure to file responses could result in unfavourable outcomes for counties, including financial awards and court cases.
The Commissioner said the forum will focus on the legal framework governing county human resource management, emerging issues in appeals, the roles of CPSBs, CASBs, county secretaries and chief officers, and disciplinary control.
She added that practical case studies will be used to deepen participants’ understanding of the appeals process and promote timely responses to appeals filed against county decisions.
Machayo expressed confidence that the engagement would strengthen human resource management in counties and improve collaboration between county governments and the Commission.
Machakos County Commissioner Jackson Ole Chuta welcomed the PSC to Machakos, adding that their presence underscores the vital role of the PSC in guiding and promoting good governance in HR practices across all levels of government.
“I have no doubt that this training will equip our officers with the requisite knowledge and skills to manage human capital more effectively,” said CC Ole Chuta.
Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi urged County Public Service Boards to exercise fairness and integrity in their line of duty.
He also emphasized the need for competence, professionalism and accountability in their responsibilities to attract public trust.
By Anne Kangero and Alex Mulili
