By Afrireport 
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has issued a sharp rebuke to sections of Kenya’s public service, warning that a culture of entitlement and complacency is undermining service delivery and eroding public trust in government institutions.
Speaking during a public service reform forum, Ruku lamented that despite sustained government investment in salaries, training and infrastructure, some civil servants have failed to match these inputs with commitment and professionalism.
He noted that many officers approach their roles with a sense of entitlement rather than a duty to serve citizens.
The CS said Kenyans continue to complain about delayed services, absenteeism and poor attitude at government offices, a situation he described as unacceptable in an era where citizens are increasingly demanding accountability and efficiency.
He argued that public service is not a privilege but a responsibility that requires discipline, integrity and dedication.
Ruku stressed that the government’s reform agenda under the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) places public servants at the centre of national development.
According to him, policies and budgets alone cannot transform the country if those charged with implementation fail to give their best.
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He warned that the government will no longer tolerate mediocrity, adding that performance based evaluations will be strictly enforced across ministries, departments and agencies.
Officers who consistently underperform, he said, will face disciplinary action, while those who demonstrate excellence will be rewarded.
The CS also pointed out that the perception of entitlement has fueled corruption and abuse of office in some quarters, further damaging the image of the public service.
He urged public servants to remember that they are paid by taxpayers and must therefore justify every shilling spent on their remuneration.
Ruku called for a cultural shift within the civil service, encouraging officers to embrace innovation, teamwork and a customer service mindset.
He emphasized that public offices should be places where citizens feel respected and assisted, not intimidated or frustrated.
At the same time, he acknowledged that challenges such as understaffing and resource constraints exist, but insisted these should not be used as excuses for poor performance.
Instead, he urged leaders within the public service to lead by example and inspire their teams to deliver results.
As the government intensifies reforms, Ruku’s remarks signal a tougher stance on accountability, with a clear message that entitlement has no place in Kenya’s public service.
