Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has fired a warning shot across the public service. On May 29, at the National Youth Service (NYS) headquarters in Ruaraka, Ruku ordered the immediate suspension of three senior NYS managers.
His message was loud and clear—corruption, mismanagement, and abuse of public trust will not be tolerated.
The move follows a widening probe into a KSh2 billion scandal and comes as the government intensifies efforts to clean up state agencies and restore faith in public institutions.
Public Service CS Ruku Orders Suspension of Three Senior NYS Managers with Immediate Effect
CS Geoffrey Ruku did not mince his words. Standing at the heart of NYS operations, he invoked Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution, reminding Kenyans and public servants alike that integrity, accountability, and professionalism are non-negotiable pillars of public service.
“The public service must serve all Kenyans fairly, responsibly, and transparently,” Ruku said. He reiterated that NYS, funded by hardworking taxpayers, must not become a playground for greedy officials chasing self-enrichment.
Ruku’s announcement came weeks after the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) raided the homes and offices of several NYS officials. These dramatic actions stem from investigations into the alleged theft of over KSh2 billion meant for youth training and empowerment.
Evidence gathered during the raids reportedly points to rampant procurement fraud, collusion, and payments made for services that were never rendered. The EACC believes this is a well-orchestrated scheme to siphon public funds while young Kenyans, the supposed beneficiaries, are left with empty promises.
The suspensions are not just administrative—they send a strong message. Ruku made it clear that NYS must be protected from the rot of corruption. He emphasized that those found mismanaging funds or engaging in fraudulent activities will not be shielded. They will face justice.
EACC Uncovers Deep Rot Behind NYS Managers’ Suspension
The NYS scandal is one of the largest in recent years. On May 7, the EACC swung into action, targeting top NYS officials suspected of orchestrating a grand theft of public funds. Their investigations revealed alarming details.
Sources inside the commission said the suspects awarded inflated contracts, processed fictitious payments, and worked in cahoots with rogue suppliers. These contracts were allegedly crafted to funnel money directly into private pockets.
The KSh2 billion involved was earmarked for vital programs aimed at giving Kenyan youth practical skills and opportunities. Instead, it appears that money was used to finance lavish lifestyles and personal gain.
According to EACC insiders, valuable documents, digital records, and communication logs were seized during the raids. These are expected to form the backbone of court cases against those implicated.
The commission has vowed to prosecute all individuals involved, no matter their rank. This aligns with President William Ruto’s tough stance on graft and misuse of public funds. Ruto has repeatedly called for zero tolerance for corruption and has empowered CS Ruku and other leaders to act without fear.
Suspension of NYS Managers Marks Turning Point for Accountability
The suspension of the three senior managers signals a new chapter for NYS. It marks a shift from silence and cover-ups to action and responsibility.
CS Ruku’s decision is more than just about rooting out corrupt individuals. It is about saving NYS from collapse. It is about ensuring the institution remains a beacon of opportunity for Kenyan youth—not a cash cow for criminals in suits.
This bold move is expected to trigger further investigations and shake-ups within the service. Already, there are reports that more names could be added to the list of suspects. Audits are underway, and anyone found wanting will face swift disciplinary action.
Ruku also used the moment to call for unity among stakeholders. “We must all work together to guard NYS from individuals seeking to exploit it for personal gain,” he said. His message was firm—clean governance begins with accountability at the top.
As the EACC prepares to press charges and as government audits continue, the public will be watching. Kenyans are tired of scandals that fizzle out without justice. They want action, and they want results.
