Court Suspends President Uhuru’s Order On Fresh Vetting of All Procurement Heads

The High Court has suspended the government’s decision to send all heads of procurement and accounting in public offices on compulsory leave as it seeks to have them undergo fresh vetting.

The suspension comes after activist Okiya Omtatah challenged the circular sending the officers home, arguing that it was created subjectively though a process that didn't involve public participation. He also argues that the move violated the Constitution.

While issuing the orders, High Court Justice Onesmus Makau certified the case as urgent and directed the respondents in the case, who include Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua and the Attorney General, be served with the petition immediately.

In a circular dated June 4th, the Head of Public Service directed all heads of procurement and accounting units in State departments, agencies, ministries and corporations to step aside with immediate effect.

The officials were also asked to submit their personal information to the Office of the Head of Public Service before June 8th ahead of the fresh vetting process.

“The exercise is geared towards determining suitability to continue holding office in the public trust and promote confidence in the public service,” read part of the notice.

In his speech during the 55th Madaraka Day Celebrations on Friday, President Kenyatta declared that the officers would undergo fresh vetting, which would include being subjected to lie detector tests within the next 30 days.

“All heads of procurement and accounts in government ministries, departments, agencies and parastatals will undergo fresh vetting including polygraph testing to determine their integrity and suitability,” said President Kenyatta at Kinoru stadium in Meru.