Public Service Commission Kenya (PSCK)

About Public Service Commission Kenya (PSCK)

The Commission traces its origins to 1954, when it was established as the Civil Service Commission by the British Colonial Government in response to the recommendations of the Holmes Commission Report (1948). Initially, the Civil Service Commission served in an advisory capacity to the Governor on matters related to appointments. Upon Kenya’s independence in 1963, its role was entrenched in the Constitution, and it was renamed the Public Service Commission. The Independence Constitution initially included Regional Public Service Commissions, but these were abolished in 1964 following constitutional amendments. As the oldest Constitutional Commission, its responsibilities have since broadened significantly.

Originally composed of a Chairman, Deputy Chairman, and fifteen members—all appointed by the President—the Commission has since managed human resource functions within the public sector, particularly in the civil service and local authorities. The Constitution of Kenya, 2010—which came into effect on August 27, 2010—restructured the Commission, redefining and expanding its mandate while reducing its membership to a leaner structure.