Members of the Kitui County Assembly have warned county officials against engaging in early political campaigns, setting the stage for a possible crackdown on those found flouting laws governing public service neutrality.
The warning followed a communication issued by Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya during Tuesday afternoon’s sitting, in which he raised concern over reports that some County Executive Committee Members, Chief Officers and other public servants had ventured into partisan politics.
MCAs who weighed in on the matter condemned the alleged conduct, terming it unlawful and a breach of public trust. They accused some officers of participating in political rallies, mobilising support and making political utterances while still holding public office.
The Speaker cited Article 75(1) of the Constitution, which requires public officers to avoid conflicts between personal interests and official duties, and Section 23 of the Leadership and Integrity Act, which bars them from engaging in political activities that compromise their impartiality.
He further warned that reports of officers using government vehicles, public resources and official time to advance political interests could amount to abuse of office and violation of anti-corruption laws.“Public office is a constitutional trust and must not be converted into a platform for political mobilisation,” Mr Katisya said, adding that such actions erode professionalism, integrity and public confidence in governance institutions.
In a directive that signals heightened oversight, the Speaker tasked the Assembly’s Labour and Social Services Committee with investigating the matter and reporting back within two months. Sectoral committees were also directed to scrutinise departments under their oversight for any signs of partisan political conduct.
At the same time, the County Executive Committee was urged to take immediate administrative measures to ensure all appointed officers refrain from engaging in political activities that compromise their offices.Independent oversight agencies, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, the Office of the Controller of Budget and the Office of the Auditor-General, were also called upon to investigate possible misuse of public resources in political mobilisation.
MCAs also turned the spotlight on the County Public Service Board, accusing it of failing to enforce discipline and uphold neutrality within the county public service. They demanded firm action against any officer found culpable.The Assembly further approved a motion to adjourn sittings from May 12 to June 2, 2026, to allow members to consult on the Supplementary Budget II for the 2025/26 financial year and the 2026/27 budget estimates.
The motion was moved by Majority Leader Harrison Maluki Mawia and seconded by Minority Leader Jeremiah Musee Mutua.The developments come amid rising political activity across the country as leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election, raising fresh concerns over the integrity and neutrality of public service.
