A storm is brewing over the controversial appointment of Mr. Kefa Seda as the Chairperson of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), with glaring inconsistencies in the selection process pointing to political interference, lack of transparency, and outright favoritism.
At the center of this debacle is none other than Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo of the National Treasury, whose role in the appointment has raised serious ethical concerns.
National Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo speaks during a past event. Photo: The Star Source: Facebook
The position of PPP Chairperson demands a candidate with extensive experience at the director level, classified under Job Group T.
However, Mr. Seda, who has only served as a Deputy Director, falls short of this fundamental requirement.
Despite clear eligibility criteria, the vetting committee has inexplicably overlooked this crucial qualification.
Such selective application of standards casts doubt on the credibility of the selection process and raises pressing questions about Kiptoo’s involvement.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) is now under fire for failing to uphold transparency and fairness.
National Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo Photo: Chris Kiptoo Source: Facebook
Reports indicate that previous memos raising concerns about Mr. Seda’s professional conduct and integrity were completely ignored.
This blatant dismissal of red flags not only undermines public trust but also suggests an orchestrated effort to force his appointment through, regardless of merit. Who stands to benefit from this deliberate oversight? The answer increasingly appears to be PS Chris Kiptoo.
Critics argue that Kiptoo’s shadow looms large over this irregular appointment, fueling speculation of undue political patronage.
It is alleged that Kiptoo has personal or professional interests in the matter, compromising the objectivity of the selection process.
Calls are mounting for him to publicly declare any conflicts of interest and step aside from any further involvement in the vetting process.
National Treasury PS Dr. Chris Kiptoo delivers a speech during a past function. Photo: NTV Kenya Source: Facebook
Furthermore, watchdog groups are demanding a full-scale lifestyle audit of Mr. Seda to scrutinize his financial dealings and career trajectory within the public sector.
Given his tenure within the PPP-KENHA framework, concerns are growing over potential conflicts of interest, mismanagement, and favoritism.
A deeper investigation into his civil service record is also warranted, particularly to assess his efficiency, accountability, and past controversies.
The Usawa Initiative, a coalition of civil society groups, is now pushing for an immediate overhaul of the selection process to ensure that appointments are made strictly on merit.
Usawa Petition
The group has issued a 14-day ultimatum, demanding a formal response from the authorities. Failure to address these concerns could see the matter escalated to the courts.
The Kenyan public deserves an accountable and transparent government, not one riddled with backdoor dealings and political interference.
