The Consumers Federation of Kenya has petitioned the Public Service Commission (PSC) seeking the removal of Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, citing what it describes as serious failures in leadership, governance, and accountability within the education sector.
In a petition filed on June 2, 2026, COFEK urged the commission to initiate constitutional proceedings against the PS, arguing that his continued stay in office has undermined public confidence in the management of basic education.
At the center of the petition are allegations that Bitok failed to enforce critical school safety measures despite recurring tragedies involving student deaths in school dormitory fires. COFEK claims that inadequate safety audits and poor implementation of emergency preparedness directives have left learners exposed to preventable risks.
The consumer rights lobby group also accused the PS of presiding over widespread irregularities in school funding, including an alleged multi-billion-shilling ghost learners scandal. According to the petition, weaknesses in oversight have enabled financial leakages within government capitation programs, depriving schools of much-needed resources.
COFEK further alleged that the principal secretary has compromised the neutrality expected of a senior public servant by engaging in political disputes. The petition claims that Bitok has been involved in political mobilization efforts and interference in the operations of other government departments, actions the organization argues are inconsistent with the principles of public service.
The petition also revisits controversies linked to Bitok's previous assignments in the immigration sector. COFEK argues that unresolved questions surrounding past passport-related disputes and immigration matters raise concerns about adherence to constitutional standards on leadership and integrity.
In addition, the organization faulted the PS over what it termed poor financial management within the education sector. The lobby group pointed to persistent delays in the disbursement of school capitation funds, saying the situation has strained learning institutions, disrupted operations, and affected the provision of meals and other essential services to students.
COFEK also cited alleged incompetence and disregard for oversight institutions, noting that parliamentary committees have previously criticized the PS for failing to appear before the National Assembly's education committee to answer questions regarding challenges facing the sector.
The petition now places the matter before the Public Service Commission, which will determine whether the allegations warrant further action under the constitutional and legal framework governing public officers.
The development is likely to intensify scrutiny of the Ministry of Education as concerns continue to mount over school safety, funding challenges, and the overall management of Kenya's education system.
Source attributed: The Standard