Francis Atwoli and Others Chosen for DPP Selection Panel

President William Ruto has formed a selection panel comprised of seven members to oversee the process of nominating candidates for the position of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Kenya. The panel includes prominent figures such as Francis Atwoli, the Chairman of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU); Shadrack Mose, the Solicitor General; and Twalib Mbarak, the CEO of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). The other members are Mary Kimonye, Mary Adhiambo Maungu, Roseline Odede, and Richard Onsongo.

President Ruto’s appointment of the panel members is based on the powers granted to him by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Act of 2013. The panel’s main responsibility is to identify and recommend qualified individuals for the role of DPP, from which the President will make the final selection. The position will be advertised to the public, allowing interested Kenyans to apply. After a shortlisting process, the candidates will undergo interviews, and the panel will submit potential nominees to President Ruto.

The chosen candidate will succeed Noordin Haji, who currently serves as the Director of the National Intelligence Service (NIS). Noordin Haji underwent a vetting process by the National Assembly before assuming his role, succeeding Philip Kameru upon his retirement.

The establishment of the selection panel reflects President Ruto’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent process in appointing the next DPP. By including individuals from various backgrounds, such as labor unions, legal expertise, and anti-corruption efforts, the panel aims to bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the decision-making process.