Koskei urge state institutions to rebuild public trust ahead of 2027 polls

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has called on government agencies and regulatory authorities to strengthen transparency, accountability and public engagement to restore confidence in public institutions as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election.

Speaking at the inaugural Global Trust Summit 2026, Koskei said rebuilding public trust required institutional reforms, responsible leadership and public services that respond to citizens’ everyday needs.

In a keynote address dubbed “Rebuilding Trust from the Frontline: Challenges, Prospects, and Opportunities,” he challenged public institutions to translate commitments into practical action that demonstrates their responsiveness to citizens and safeguards the public interest.

Koskei said regulatory authorities had a particularly important responsibility because their decisions directly influence livelihoods, business operations and access to essential services.

“Regulatory authorities have a particular responsibility because they are, in many respects, small governments within the sectors they oversee. Their decisions affect livelihoods, businesses and access to essential services, making fairness, transparency and consistency in setting standards and enforcing compliance essential to public confidence,” he said.

He urged regulators to apply standards fairly, enforce compliance transparently and demonstrate integrity in their operations, warning that public confidence depended on how institutions exercised their authority and responded to citizens’ concerns.

Koskei also called for stronger oversight mechanisms, measurable results and enhanced regional and international cooperation to improve institutional performance.

He said communities of practice could provide platforms for institutions to share experiences, learn from one another and adopt approaches that strengthen service delivery.

“Ultimately, trust grows when institutions keep their commitments, take responsibility for their decisions and deliver the services citizens depend on,” he said.

His remarks placed accountability and effective service delivery at the centre of efforts to rebuild public confidence, particularly as the country prepares for the next electoral cycle.

The summit was held under the theme “Weaving Trust: Binding Strands for a Strong Global Order,” bringing together representatives from government, business, civil society, academia, the media and technology.

Participants examined strategies for strengthening institutional credibility, improving public engagement and restoring confidence in organisations responsible for governance and service delivery.

The discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that public institutions demonstrate fairness, consistency and accountability in their decisions, particularly where policies and regulatory actions directly affect citizens and businesses.