Former Teachers Service Commission CEO Dr. Nancy Macharia has officially withdrawn from consideration as Chairperson of the Murang’a County Public Service Board. She informed Governor Irungu Kang’ata just one day before her scheduled vetting, that she recently accepted a full-time offer with an international organisation. Consequently, she said she cannot assume the role due to time clashes. In her letter, she expressed gratitude for the nomination but clarified she anticipated a part-time engagement instead.
Governor Kang’ata had nominated Macharia alongside four others: Dr. Louis Mwende Musikali, Johnson Kang’ethe Kinyua, Dr. Brian Lishenga Makamu, and Oscar Kimani Gathura, who is positioned as board secretary. The nominations appeared after her decade-long tenure at TSC came to an end on June 30.
Public reaction to her exit emerged quickly. Alex Mbote, a Murang’a resident, had petitioned the County Assembly challenging her nomination. He pointed out that Macharia exceeded the mandatory retirement age for public service and lacked a legal exemption. “I depose that the spirit of the mandatory retirement age for public servants is to create opportunity for a new generation of leaders and prevent the stagnation of public institutions,” Mbote said. He also argued that appointing a pensioner to another public office could unfairly use taxpayer funds.
Mr. Mbote stressed that a county public service board should choose vibrant leadership, noting, “A county public service board plays a crucial role in shaping the human resource landscape of the county. Appointing a younger, vibrant individual would bring fresh perspectives.” He urged MCAs to consider other nominees and uphold transparency in line with good governance principles.
Supporters of Macharia, however, highlighted her reform-driven leadership during her time at TSC. Her tenure included rolling out the Competency-Based Curriculum, modernising teacher recruitment, and introducing performance-based pay. Advocates pointed to her strong leadership as an asset for Murang’a’s human resource management.
The County Assembly has invited the public to submit their views on the remaining nominees before the vetting session set for June 27. Under the County Appointments Act, MCAs have 21 days from June 17 to approve or reject nominees. The vetting will focus on qualifications, integrity, and suitability.
Looking forward, Governor Kang’ata may consider nominating an alternative candidate if Macharia’s withdrawal leaves a hole in leadership. Meanwhile, voters and analysts alike are monitoring how the vetting will shape Murang’a’s public service board and its ability to drive county development.
