Why acting TSC CEO may remain at the helm longer than expected

Teachers Service Commission’s (TSC) acting  CEO and secretary Evaleen Mitei is likely to continue at the helm of the commission for a longer time contrary to the expectations of many. Education News has learnt that with court injunction filed by Tom Oyugi citing constitutional violations, is likely to slow the search for a new CEO thus, making Mitei to continue discharging commission’s duties.

TSC begun the hunt for a new CEO on May 6, 2025, a process that begun with the declaration of the vacancy and subsequent request for applications that its deadline was to be 27th of the same month. The declaration by the Employment and labour relations court muted the whole process.

The commission notified the public of Dr Nancy Macharia’s leave pending retirement with Evaleen Mitei taking over on an acting capacity. Many stakeholders in the education sector have raised concerns over the delay in the appointment of the substantive CEO. Talking to the Education News, KNUT officials from Eastern region blamed the absence of the substantive secretary on the delay witnessed in arrival of the 2025-2029 collective Bargaining Agreement, (CBA) with the Teacher unions.

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“Meaningful negotiations and developments cannot be achieved with the current situation. Who will sign the agreement with us in absence of a substantive CEO?” asked the KNUT official.

He further cautioned for a mother of all strikes should the status quo remain.

“Teachers needs to be cushioned against the erosion of the shilling that has happened and this should not take any more time,” added the official.

So far, the acting CEO has gone ahead to demonstrate her capacity to steer the commission by appearing before the Parliamentary Education committee summon last week. Many observers were wowed by her confidence and grasp of ongoing within the commission.

The acting CEO expounded on plans to promote more teachers and field officers, an issue that attracted accolades from the commission’s employees.

By Naboth Murunga