Why TSC should release new promotion rules first

Political timing • Issuing national IDs to more than one million Form Four students is welcome, says Yabesh Omwonga, but the timing invites scrutiny. For years, school leavers endured delays that blocked access to jobs, college and services. “Public service should not operate on an election timetable,” he says. IDs may open doors but cannot create jobs or fix struggling universities. The test, he argues, is whether this becomes lasting reform.

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Unfair interviews • TSC’s decision to conduct promotion interviews before releasing updated Career Progression Guidelines is unfair and confusing, says Nathan Muthamia of Chuka. Teachers are being assessed under old criteria even as job groups face possible changes. Those serving in transition grades risk being disadvantaged. TSC should first publish and explain the new rules for every teacher to know where they stand.

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Officer conduct • Allegations of misconduct against an NIS officer serving in Kerio Valley should be investigated, says Jonah Wanyama. Residents accuse the officer of interfering in land and school matters and shielding suspects sought over banditry and cattle rustling. Wanyama says the claims, including abuse of office for personal gain, warrant scrutiny by NIS Director Noordin Haji and appropriate action if proved.

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Fare control • Parliament should support Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa’s Bill to regulate public transport fares, says Nicholas Murithi of Nairobi. He argues that passengers have long faced arbitrary charges driven by demand, weather and operators’ greed, citing higher fares on Meru routes than comparable journeys elsewhere. Regulation, as practised in countries such as Tanzania, would protect commuters while sustaining the transport sector.

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