BEST AND WORST PERFORMING PRINCIPAL SECRETARIES (PS) IN KENYA (2023–2025)
The role of a Principal Secretary (PS) in government is central to the effective delivery of services and the implementation of government policies that shape the nation’s development agenda. As accounting officers of ministries, PSs not only coordinate the daily functions of their departments but also play a pivotal role in ensuring that government programs align with the vision and aspirations of the people.The year 2023–2025 has presented Kenya with significant challenges—ranging from economic turbulence, digital transformation, jobs creation, and ongoing reforms in public service. Against this backdrop, the performance of Principal Secretary has been under the spotlight, with citizens and stakeholders keenly observing those who are delivering results and those falling short of public expectations.
This article highlights the five best performing and five worst performing Principal Secretaries over the last 3 years (2023-2025), based strictly on observed impact, leadership style, integrity and efficiency in service delivery.
Five Best Performing Permanent Secretaries (2023–2025)
Dr. Chris Kiptoo
Stood out as impactful with professionalism, efficiency, and resource management. Respected for accountability and innovation.
Dr. Raymond Omollo
Instrumental in strengthening internal systems of government. Associated with stability, reforms, and grassroots service delivery.
Julius Bitok
Maintained a results-driven approach, demonstrating openness and efficiency, making him a progressive leader.
Eng. John Tanui
Blended technical expertise with leadership, especially in ICT infrastructure and innovation projects.
Charles Hinga
Recognized for relentless effort and discipline, ensuring his ministry is responsive to public needs.
President William Ruto meets PSs in 2022. Photo/ PCS
Five Worst Performing Permanent Secretaries (2023–2025)
Sylvia Museiya
Faced criticism for inefficiency, controversy, lack of transparency, dishonesty, and poor leadership, making her the lowest-ranked performer.
Umy Bashir
Leadership marked by stagnation and minimal impact. Struggled with poor communication and weak reforms.
Philip Kello Harsama
Flagged for poor performance, detached leadership, and failure to address pressing challenges.
Joel Arumanyanga
Consistently underperformed, with delays, inadequate reforms, and missed opportunities.
Stephen Isaboke
His docket suffered from weak oversight, poor service delivery, and lack of strategic focus.
Conclusion
The performance of Principal Secretaries in Kenya remains a critical factor in the overall success of government programs and policies. The contrast between the best and worst performers in 2023–2025 is a reminder that leadership, integrity, and efficiency are not optional but necessary attributes for public servants.
Inspirational personalities like Dr. Chris Kiptoo, Dr. Raymond Omollo, Prof. Julius Bitok, Charles Hinga, and Eng. John Tanui have shown that with the right vision, commitment and integrity, ministries can thrive and deliver results that impact citizens positively. On the other hand, the miserable and dubious performance of Sylvia Museiya, Umy Bashir, Philip Kelo Harsama, Joel Arumanyanga, and Stephen Isaboke highlights the urgent need for accountability, integrity and reform in Kenya’s public service.
As Kenya continues to navigate its development agenda, it is imperative that lessons from both the best and worst performing Principal Secretaries be applied to strengthen governance, improve transparency, accountability and ensure that every Kenyan feels the positive impact of government policies.
