The West Pokot County Public Service Board has a new team of members after four individuals were sworn into office. James Akudian, a veteran civil servant, chairs the board, which also includes James Loyatem, Emily Chepoghisyo, and David Yator Kiptum. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the official residence of West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin in Kapenguria. The board's six-year non-renewable term has now begun.
The new board members were sworn in by Kapenguria Principal Magistrate Stellah Telewa. Governor Kachapin congratulated the new members and emphasized that their oath was a solemn commitment to the people of West Pokot. He reminded them that their decisions on recruitment, appointments, promotions, discipline, and human resource management must be guided by the law, merit, and fairness. The governor also stressed the importance of upholding constitutional principles.
Governor Kachapin highlighted the need for fairness and equal opportunity in the county public service. He urged the board to address staffing gaps, strengthen employee capacity, support career development, and create a working environment where county employees understand their rights and responsibilities. The governor noted that the effectiveness of the county government depends on its workers, who deliver essential services to residents.
The new Chairperson, James Akudian, brings nearly three decades of experience in public sector leadership. He said his immediate priority would be to restore confidence and improve the welfare of county employees. Akudian announced that the board's first 100 days would focus on engaging county departments to identify challenges affecting service delivery and develop practical solutions.
Akudian also emphasized the need to protect the independence of the public service from political changes. He pledged to engage political leaders across the political divide during his first 100 days to sensitize them on the importance of allowing the board to discharge its mandate independently. The chairperson also vowed to address concerns raised by county employees, including salary-related issues.
Deputy Governor Robert Komolle called for political goodwill from leaders in the county and urged them to focus on development and service delivery despite political differences. He criticized attempts by some opposition leaders to use court processes to interfere with the appointment of the board. Komolle urged political leaders to offer constructive criticism and work towards the interests of West Pokot residents.
The new board assumes a critical role in shaping the human resource framework of the county, including recruitment, appointments, promotions, disciplinary processes, and employee development. Its work will directly affect thousands of county employees and, ultimately, the delivery of essential services to residents across West Pokot. The board is expected to work with the County Executive, County Assembly, employees, and other relevant institutions while maintaining its independence.
Key points
- The new West Pokot County Public Service Board has been sworn in, with James Akudian as chairperson.
- The board's six-year non-renewable term has begun, and it will focus on improving the welfare of county employees and service delivery.
- The board will play a critical role in shaping the human resource framework of the county and ensuring fairness and equal opportunity in the county public service.
