Civil servants reporting late to work on Monday morning at the Rift Valley regional offices in Nakuru faced an unexpected wake-up call. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, who arrived at the premises at 8 a.m. sharp, ordered the office gates locked, barring latecomers from accessing their workstations.
Why Did CS Ruku Lock the Gates?
The surprise move was part of an impromptu spot check by the Cabinet Secretary, aimed at evaluating service delivery across public offices in the region. Ruku addressed the staff members who had arrived on time and made it clear that punctuality is a non-negotiable part of public service. Those who came in late were left stranded outside the gates, a clear message that complacency in government offices would no longer be tolerated.
What Did Ruku Say About Public Service?
While speaking to the punctual staff, CS Ruku emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing key concerns raised by public servants, including stalled promotions and workplace conditions. He reassured them that reforms were underway to ensure a more motivated and efficient workforce.
Just a day earlier, Ruku had affirmed the government’s plan to improve access to services by opening additional Huduma Centres nationwide. The goal, he said, is to decentralize service delivery and make it more responsive to the public’s needs.
What Is Expected of Public Servants?
Ruku urged all civil servants to dedicate themselves fully to their roles and serve every Kenyan fairly and efficiently. “As leaders, we must focus on service delivery. The time for politics will come in 2027, but for now, we must work,” he stated during a public address on Sunday.
His firm stance in Nakuru is being seen as a warning shot to government workers nationwide that performance, punctuality, and professionalism are now under strict scrutiny.
By Lucky Anyanje
