The Public Service Commission has warned county governments that failure to properly handle employee appeals could expose them to financial awards and court battles.
The warning came as the PSC launched a three-day capacity-building forum in Machakos to strengthen county governments’ capacity in human resource management and the handling of appeals.
The forum brings together County Public Service Boards, County Assembly Service Boards and county executives from Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, Vihiga, Nyamira and Nairobi.
Speaking on behalf of PSC Chief Executive Officer Paul Famba, Director John Njorio said the Commission’s appellate role was a constitutional safeguard that protects the rights of county public officers while promoting fairness and accountability.
He said the PSC (County Appeals Procedures) Regulations, 2022 provide a framework for resolving employer-employee disputes and promoting uniform standards in county HR management.
Njorio said appeals filed under Section 77 of the County Governments Act arise from recruitment, appointment, disciplinary action, remuneration, retirement and terminal benefits.
Representing PSC Chairperson Francis Meja, Commissioner Joan Machayo said the Commission had considered and determined 434 appeals and applications for review by August 31 in the last financial year.
She said the cases had exposed gaps in county HR management, including failure by some counties to follow procedures set out in law and HR policies.
“Of great concern are instances where some counties fail to comply with provisions on filing of responses to appeals,” she said.
Machayo warned that delays or failure to file responses could result in unfavourable outcomes for counties, including financial awards and court cases.
The forum will focus on the legal framework governing county HR management, emerging issues in appeals, the roles of County Public Service Boards, County Assembly Service Boards, county secretaries and chief officers, as well as disciplinary control.
Practical case studies will be used to deepen participants’ understanding of the appeals process and promote timely responses to appeals filed against county decisions.
Machakos County Commissioner Jackson Ole Chuta said the presence of the PSC in Machakos underscored its role in guiding and promoting good governance in HR practices across all levels of government.
Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi urged County Public Service Boards to exercise fairness and integrity, while emphasising competence, professionalism and accountability to earn public trust.
