Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has challenged regulatory authorities and agencies to streamline coordination for faster service delivery. He said this will help improve public trust in the government.
The DP said that the regulatory authorities and agencies performances are a reflection of the government itself.
Kindiki spoke on Wednesday at the 3rd Annual Regulatory Authorities and Agencies Conference. The event was held at the South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU), Kitui County.
The purpose of the conference was to focus on strengthening regulation in Kenya.
Present at the event were senior government officials, regulatory authorities and agencies leadership. Also in attendance were the Vice Chancellor and staff of SEKU, and other stakeholders.
He said that currently, there are 127 regulatory authorities and agencies operating under the various state departments.
The responsibilities of the regulatory authorities and agencies include licensing, enforcing compliance, and protecting public welfare.
“We must ensure that the presence of the 127 regulators translates into coordinated strength, clarity, and efficiency rather than duplication, confusion, and delay,” Kindiki stated.
The Deputy President added that agencies need to execute their mandates with urgency and in a transparent manner.
“When regulatory action is weak, inconsistent, or compromised, Government itself appears weak, and when regulatory processes are opaque or unfair, Government is perceived as unjust, but when regulation is firm, fair, and predictable, Government earns trust, credibility, and legitimacy,” he noted.
Kindiki also urged the regulatory bodies to avoid inefficiencies. He noted that such shortcomings reflect badly on the country’s governance.
“It is not enough that you are working, your work must be seen, felt, and experienced by the citizens we serve. Government action must be clear, consistent, and visible in the public space, reflecting the seriousness and discipline with which we execute our mandate,” said Kindiki.
The Deputy President also emphasized adherence to Article 232 of the Constitution. The section dictates that the public service must be responsive, transparent, accountable, and efficient.
“No citizen should ever have to ask where the Government is because the Government is present wherever rules are set, standards enforced, safety assured, and fairness upheld,” he added.
He also challenged regulatory authorities and agencies to adopt clear indicators, credible data systems, and regular evaluation mechanisms. The aim is to ensure that regulatory actions translate into tangible outcomes.
