All set in search for new DPP as selection panel takes office

The Public Service Commission (PSC) on Monday inaugurated the selection panel for recruitment of the new Director of Public Prosecutions who will replace Noordin Haji who is now the director-general of the National Intelligence Service.

President William Ruto appointed Mary Kimonye, Shadrack Mose, Mary Adhiambo Maungu, Roseline Odede, Richard Onsongo, Bush Obwocha, Francis Atwoli and Twalib Abdallah Mbarak as members of the selection panel.

Speaking during the swearing-in of the selection panel members in Nairobi, PSC chairman Anthony Muchiri urged them to carry out their duties in accordance with the Constitution.

"I am confident you are all equal to the task ahead, in your search for suitable nominees. The law obligates you to undertake your assignment with dedication, zeal, integrity and fairness," said Muchiri.

Prosecuting authority

The Office of the DPP is the national prosecuting authority with a mandate to prosecute all criminal cases in the country. The DPP is expected to operate independently according to Article 157 of the Constitution.

Based on the independence of the office of the DPP, the PSC chairperson told the selection panel that the holder of such an office needs to be selected meticulously.

"Kenyans expect nothing short of a process that is open, transparent, accountable, lawful and fair that would provide a Director of Public Prosecutions who has a high degree of integrity, independent and accountable to Kenyans," Muchiri said.

He urged the panel to give Kenyans a DPP who will act fairly in discharging their constitutional mandate, and uphold and preserve the public trust and confidence.

The ODPP has a presence in all counties with its headquarters in Nairobi.

Chief County Prosecutor (CCP) heads each ODPP county office. The CCP works with the courts and investigative agencies to prosecute cases. The DPP helps these bodies to provide high-quality prosecution services in their jurisdiction.

Principal Administrative Secretary in the Executive Office of the President, Arthur Osiya, urged the panel to undertake their assignment with integrity and transparency.

According to Constitution

"I wish you well in your appointment and urge you to carry out your duties in accordance to the Constitution, particularly the values and principles prescribed in articles 10 and 232, and Chapter Six," Osiya said.

The ODPP draws its mandate from the Constitution and the ODPP Act 2013, which give the DPP the powers to direct the Inspector General of the National Police Service to investigate any information or allegation of criminal conduct.

The ceremony saw the swearing- in of four out of the seven selection panel members under the guidance of the Director (Legal Service), PSC Jacqueline Manani.

Muchiri said Maungu, Odede and Mbarak were absent with an apology and will be sworn-in in the course of the week.