By Bonface Mulyungi
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has challenged regulatory bodies and agencies to enhance coordination for quick and efficient service delivery.
The DP said the work done by the agencies defines the government’s performance, hence the need to improve decision-making and coordination to meet Kenyans’ expectations and avert duplication of duties.
“We must ensure that the presence of the 127 regulators translates into coordinated strength, clarity, and efficiency rather than duplication, confusion, and delay,” DP stated.
Kindiki spoke on Wednesday when he addressed the 3rd Annual Regulatory Authorities and Agencies Conference held at South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU), Kitui County.Presently, there are 127 Regulatory Authorities and Agencies (RAAs) under operation within the various State Departments with mandates touching on every facet of the economy and society.
The Deputy President said Kenyans expect the agencies to execute their mandates with urgency, vigour and in a transparent manner.
“When regulatory action is weak, inconsistent, or compromised, Government itself appears weak, and when regulatory processes are opaque or unfair, Government is perceived as unjust, but when regulation is firm, fair, and predictable, Government earns trust, credibility, and legitimacy,” he noted.
In discharging their duties, Kindiki urged the regulatory bodies to avoid laxity and comfort, saying such would reflect badly on the state of governance in the country.
“It is not enough that you are working; your work must be seen, felt, and experienced by the citizens we serve. Government action must be clear, consistent, and visible in the public space, reflecting the seriousness and discipline with which we execute our mandate,” DP reiterated.
The DP emphasized adherence to the Constitution, which provides clear guidance on the obligations of the public service in Article 232, saying no Kenyan should be mistreated or poorly served by those in public service. “No citizen should ever have to ask where the Government is because the Government is present wherever rules are set, standards enforced, safety assured, and fairness upheld,” he added.
