Dr. Nancy Macharia, the recently retired CEO of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), has officially declined a nomination by Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata to chair the county’s Public Service Board. Her decision follows growing public scrutiny and a legal petition questioning the legitimacy of the appointment.
Highlights
- Dr. Macharia was nominated to chair the Murang’a County Public Service Board just before retiring from TSC.
- She turned down the nomination amid a petition challenging her eligibility based on retirement age.
- The nomination had sparked debate about recycling of leadership in public roles.
- Her withdrawal came ahead of scheduled vetting by the County Assembly.
- The governor will now need to nominate a new candidate for the position.
Main Story
Governor Irungu Kang’ata had named Dr. Nancy Macharia among five nominees for positions in the Murang’a County Public Service Board, selecting her for the chairperson role. The nomination came shortly before her retirement from TSC, marking a swift transition from national to county-level leadership.
Soon after the announcement, a Murang’a resident filed a petition arguing that Dr. Macharia was ineligible for the role due to having reached the public service retirement age. The petition urged the County Assembly to block her appointment, citing concerns over legality and fair representation.
Dr. Macharia ultimately withdrew her candidacy before facing the County Assembly vetting panel. Her move effectively ended the controversy and cleared the way for the governor to submit a new nominee. While she did not issue a public statement, sources close to her cited the need to avoid unnecessary political entanglement so soon after her national service.
Sometimes stepping back is the boldest move a leader can make — especially when public trust and transparency are on the line.
