Governor Kang’ata Responds After Nancy Macharia Declines Murang’a County Public Service Board Nomination

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has spoken out following the decision by former Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Chief Executive Officer, Nancy Macharia, to decline her nomination as Chairperson of the Murang’a County Public Service Board. Macharia, who retired from the TSC on June 30, 2025, turned down the county appointment citing professional obligations tied to a new consulting role she has taken up with an international organization, reportedly the World Bank.

In his statement, Governor Kang’ata expressed both admiration and disappointment. He acknowledged that the nomination was a strategic move aimed at tapping into Macharia’s vast experience in public service and human resource reform.

He praised her for her long-standing contributions to education and workforce development, stating that her involvement could have significantly enhanced Murang’a’s public service board operations, especially in streamlining staff promotions and curbing nepotism and corruption in hiring.

According to Kang’ata, the county currently lacks a robust career progression framework for its workers. His vision was for Macharia to bring to the county the same energy and transformative leadership she exhibited at the national level while heading the TSC.

The governor also noted that her decision not to accept the role was understandable, given the conflicting time commitments between her new international assignment and the full-time demands of the county post.

Macharia, in a formal letter dated June 25, respectfully turned down the offer, emphasizing her preference for a part-time engagement which the county role did not accommodate. She also cited concerns about compromising effectiveness if she attempted to juggle both roles.

Governor Kang’ata addressed public reactions that questioned the nomination, especially from some local residents who expressed reservations about Macharia’s age and suitability for a county-level post.

He defended the nomination, stating that the position required seasoned expertise, not youthfulness, and that Macharia had met all the statutory qualifications for the role. He clarified that the county chairmanship is not a salaried position and only provides sitting allowances, emphasizing that Macharia’s interest was purely service-driven and not financially motivated.

Her withdrawal has left a vacancy in the board’s leadership just as the Murang’a County Assembly prepares to vet the remaining nominees. Among those still under consideration are Dr. Louis Musikali, Johnson Kang’ethe, Brian Lishenga, and Oscar Kimani, with Kimani nominated as Secretary to the Board.

As the vetting process proceeds, Governor Kang’ata reiterated his commitment to merit-based appointments and strengthening the professionalism of Murang’a’s county service. He affirmed that while Macharia’s withdrawal is regrettable, the county remains focused on selecting a leader who can bring integrity, experience, and innovation to the board’s operations.