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MAAD: Prioritise merit, strengthen governance through competent leadership

Meritocracy revolves around selecting leaders based on their qualifications, skills and proven track record

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by Josephine Mayuya

Opinion19 July 2024 - 18:14

In Summary


  • Political appointments based on patronage, favouritism or loyalty risk compromising the integrity of governance. 
  • Getting the right candidates through merit-based criteria will enable President Ruto to fulfil his promise of a Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda
President William Ruto during swearing-in of Cabinet secretaries at State House, Nairobi

After the recent Cabinet dismissals, President William Ruto faces a pivotal moment in reshaping Kenya’s leadership. As an HR specialist deeply involved in governance issues, I commend the President for acknowledging the challenges our country faces and for his commitment to introspection and reform. Embracing a merit-based approach to appointing new Cabinet members is not just a necessity but a crucial step towards rebuilding public trust and enhancing government efficiency.

Meritocracy in government appointments revolves around selecting leaders based on their qualifications, skills and proven track record rather than political connections or personal favours. This principle ensures that those entrusted with ministerial roles are best equipped to handle the responsibilities they are assigned.

By emphasising transparency and fairness in the selection process, merit-based recruitment promotes accountability and boosts confidence among citizens, who rightly expect their leaders to be chosen based on merit alone.

Countries like Canada and Singapore offer compelling examples of effective governance through meritocratic systems. These nations prioritise competence and integrity in their leadership selection processes, resulting in administrations that are better equipped to address national challenges and deliver sustainable development.

By benchmarking against these global practices, Kenya can adopt similar standards to ensure that its leadership cadre is not only capable but also reflective of the nation’s aspirations for progress and good governance.

Conversely, political appointments based on patronage, favouritism or loyalty risk compromising the integrity of governance. When leaders are chosen primarily for their political affiliations rather than their qualifications, the potential for inefficiency, corruption and public disillusionment increases significantly. 

Such practices undermine meritocracy and erode public trust, hindering the government’s ability to effectively serve the interests of its citizens and manage public resources responsibly.

Implementing merit-based recruitment is a win-win formula for President Ruto, Gen Z and the Kenyan public alike. For the President, it offers a chance to demonstrate strong leadership by selecting a team of capable individuals who can drive his vision for a prosperous Kenya.

Importantly, getting the right candidates through merit-based criteria will enable President Ruto to fulfil his promise of a Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda to the hustler nation, as pledged during the 2022 election.

For Gen Z, who are increasingly demanding transparency and accountability from their leaders, meritocracy represents a pathway to a future where competence and dedication are valued over connections. And for the Kenyan public at large, merit-based appointments promise a government that operates with integrity, efficiency, and fairness, ultimately fostering greater trust and participation in national affairs.

To implement effective merit-based reforms, it is essential to establish clear and transparent criteria for Cabinet appointments. This includes rigorous assessments of candidates’ qualifications, skills, and experience relevant to their prospective roles.

Involving civil society, media and independent oversight bodies can further enhance transparency and ensure that the selection process is free from undue influence or bias. By fostering a culture where merit and performance are paramount, Kenya can strengthen its governance framework and build a leadership pipeline capable of steering the nation towards sustainable development and prosperity.

Roto’s commitment to a Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda resonates strongly with the principles of meritocracy. By appointing leaders based on their merit, the President not only aligns with his electoral promises but also sets a foundation for inclusive growth and development.

Merit-based appointments ensure that leaders understand the needs and aspirations of all Kenyans, particularly those at the grassroots level. This approach not only enhances governance but also empowers local communities by placing capable leaders who can implement policies that directly benefit them.

The 2010 Constitution provides a robust framework supporting merit-based recruitment in public service. Article 232 outlines principles of public service, including integrity, transparency and accountability. It mandates that recruitment and appointment to public offices should be fair, competitive and merit-based.

Additionally, the Public Service Values and Principles Act, 2015, further emphasizes the importance of meritocracy in ensuring efficient and effective service delivery to Kenyan citizens.

Transitioning from a system of political patronage to merit-based recruitment poses challenges, including resistance from vested interests and the need for comprehensive reform of existing processes.

However, these challenges are outweighed by the long-term benefits of a more efficient and accountable government. Embracing meritocracy presents an opportunity for Kenya to leapfrog in governance, setting a standard for other nations in Africa and beyond.

As Kenya navigates the process of appointing new Cabinet members, prioritising meritocracy offers a pathway to revitalising government effectiveness and public confidence.

By upholding principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness in leadership selection, President Ruto can set a precedent for responsible governance and inspire trust among citizens. It is time to embrace a leadership ethos that values competence and merit above all else, ensuring that Kenya’s leadership reflects the highest standards of integrity and capability. 

CEO of Afrifuture Management Consult and HR Specialist. [email protected]


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