In a strong show of unity, the heads of Kenya’s Constitutional Commissions and Independent Offices convened today in Nairobi to strengthen institutional collaboration while fiercely guarding their autonomy.
The high-level forum, attended by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Renson Ingonga, focused on refining a framework for engagement with the Executive without compromising the independence enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.
“This is not just a meeting—it’s a milestone. Today, we affirm that independence is not isolation. We can work together, coordinate effectively, and still remain true to our constitutional mandates,” said Mr. Ingonga.
The forum culminated in the election of new caucus leaders, with Auditor General Nancy Gathungu being elected as Chair, and Sammy Chepkwony, Commissioner of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), stepping in as Deputy Chair.
In her acceptance remarks, Ms. Gathungu noted: “This leadership is not about titles; it’s about duty. Our collective voice must be loud, firm, and focused on upholding transparency, good governance, and service to Kenyans.”
The forum, described by insiders as both “timely and transformative,” provided a platform for the institutions to reflect on their collective role in upholding the rule of law, reinforcing checks and balances, and ensuring public trust in governance systems.
“The Constitution demands independence, but it also demands cooperation,” said Mr. Chepkwony.
“What we’re building here is a culture of respect, between institutions and for the people we serve.”
A key agenda item was the deliberation on a proposed framework for engaging with the Executive arm of government.
According to participants, this framework seeks to foster mutual respect, ensure policy alignment, and safeguard against undue influence, all while maintaining the integrity of constitutional offices.
“We are not here to rubber-stamp decisions. We are here to ensure that every arm of government respects the boundaries and principles that uphold democracy,” said one participant.
The forum concluded with a renewed pledge to promote democratic values, uphold the rule of law, and maintain institutional integrity in the face of growing governance challenges.
As Ms. Gathungu aptly summed it up: “Good governance is not a choice; it is a constitutional imperative. And today, we stand united to defend it.”
