Koome Swears In New Salaries Commission Boss
Chief Justice Martha Koome on Monday, December 1, 2025, officially presided over the swearing-in of Engineer Michael Kingi Thoya as the new Commissioner of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). He will serve a full six-year term as part of the constitutional body that oversees public sector pay in Kenya.
Engineer Kingi takes over from Dr. Anne Rwamba Gitau, whose term ended on June 30, 2025. The oath of office was administered by Hon. Esther Nyaiyaki, the Registrar in the Office of the Chief Registrar, during a brief but important ceremony.
While welcoming the new appointee, Chief Justice Koome reminded him of the seriousness and responsibility that comes with the role.
She stressed that the position demands commitment to advancing Article 230 of the Constitution, which guides the SRC in ensuring Kenya maintains a wage bill that the country can afford, while still attracting and retaining skilled professionals in the public service.
She also underscored the importance of linking public pay to productivity and performance so that taxpayers get value for their money.
Koome further described the SRC as a critical institution for strengthening governance in the country. She emphasized that the Commissioner must uphold core values such as independence, transparency, accountability, and impartiality to ensure the Commission fulfills its mandate without bias or external influence.
Article 230 of the Constitution of Kenya (2010) establishes the SRC and outlines its membership structure, which includes a chairperson and twelve commissioners drawn from various sectors and professional bodies.
The Commission is tasked with setting, reviewing, and advising on the salaries and benefits of State officers. It also guides both the national and county governments on pay structures for public officers to promote fairness and equity across the public service.
Engineer Kingi Thoya brings both political and technical experience to the SRC. He previously served as the Member of Parliament for Magarini Constituency between 2017 and 2022 under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Before joining politics, he trained and worked as a civil engineer.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and a Diploma in engineering from the Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT).
His professional career includes significant leadership roles in the water and sanitation sector, notably serving as the Managing Director of the Malindi Water and Sewerage Company.
During his time in Parliament, he contributed to national oversight through key committees such as Public Accounts, Implementation, and Public Investments, where he participated in scrutiny of public spending and evaluation of government programs.
With his blend of engineering expertise, management experience, and parliamentary oversight background, Eng. Kingi is expected to bring fresh energy and informed leadership to the SRC as it continues shaping Kenya’s public remuneration framework.
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