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A group of public service interns has expressed strong dissatisfaction with what they describe as discrimination and unfair treatment within the Public Service Commission (PSC).
The interns, who have undergone rigorous training programs, claim they are being treated as “second-class citizens” and have accused the PSC’s Chief Executive Officer of partiality, favoritism, and unethical behavior in the issuance of confirmation letters.
The interns, representing various government programs including the Public Service Internship Program (PSIP), Digital Literacy Program (DLP), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and several Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as well as County Governments, are calling for the immediate removal of the PSC CEO. They argue that his actions constitute abuse of office, complacency, and a failure to adhere to the public service guidelines outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.
In a memo seen by news outlets, the interns announced their intention to stage a peaceful demonstration on August 19, 2024, to voice their concerns and demand immediate reforms.
The memo titled “Notice of Demonstration by PSIP/OLP/KRA/MDA/County Government Interns” outlines their grievances, stating:
“We, the Interns from the Public Service Internship Program (PSIP), Digital Literacy Program (DLP), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDA), and County Governments, hereby notify the Public Service Commission (PSC) of our intent to stage a peaceful demonstration on 15/07/2024.”
The interns claim that despite successfully completing their training programs, they have been overlooked for permanent positions in favor of untrained and unqualified individuals. This practice, they argue, undermines the value of their training and compromises the quality of public service delivery.
In addition, the interns are urging the government to follow through on its recent directive to retire civil servants aged 60 years and above, which has created approximately 30,000 job vacancies. They believe these vacancies should be filled by the trained interns, addressing the impending workforce gap.
Their demands are clear:
- Immediate absorption of all trained interns into permanent positions.
- Transparent and merit-based recruitment processes within the PSC.
- A commitment to utilizing trained and qualified interns to enhance public service delivery.
The interns have expressed hope that the PSC will address their concerns promptly to avoid the need for further action. As the date of the planned demonstration approaches, the situation remains tense, with the interns determined to see their grievances addressed.
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