This archive report was first published on 16 August 2019.
On August 16, 2019, various reports tabled in Parliament highlighted the issue of diversity at the workplace, revealing significant regional imbalances in employment in key State corporations.
The Constitution places a high premium on diversity, which is integral to national stability. All citizens have equal rights to jobs and public resources, making it essential to address the issue of bias in top public appointments.
Reports have consistently shown that some State corporations, such as the National Social Security Fund, National Hospital Insurance Fund, and the Kenya National Examinations Council, are dominated by five ethnic groups. This is not a new issue, as similar reports have been tabled in Parliament in the past.
Despite the government's Diversity Policy for State Ministries and Agencies, published in 2015, the discrepancies continue to demonstrate inaction on socio-economic aberrations that spawn animosity.
The government's failure to address this issue has led to the perpetuation of a system where those in power bring in their kin, creating a false sense of security and resentment among those left out.
It is essential for the government to take concrete steps to address this issue, including periodically publishing a complete list of individuals occupying top positions in ministries and agencies, and enforcing affirmative action to end discrimination.
