Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has sounded the alarm over a massive payroll fraud scheme within the government, where thousands of civil servants who reached retirement age years ago are still drawing salaries and allowances illegally.
Speaking on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, during the National Human Resource Management (HRM) Conference in Naivasha, Nakuru County, Ruku revealed that an extensive audit across all government agencies exposed widespread malpractice, including fake academic credentials, backdated birth certificates, and duplicate salary claims.
“We have reports that some workers are earning double allowances, while others have been exempted from paying taxes, and this is costing the government billions of shillings,” said the CS.
Ruku confirmed that his ministry is collaborating with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate the cases, warning that those found guilty will face dismissal and prosecution.
To tackle the problem, the ministry has rolled out a new mobile application to capture all work-related data across government agencies. “This app will help us identify ghost workers and eliminate the existing loopholes,” Ruku explained.
The CS also cautioned county governments and state corporations that have failed to implement the Unified Human Resources Information System (UHRIS) — a digital platform aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in the public sector.
The Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) pledged support for the government’s reform agenda. Executive Director Quresha Abdullahi urged policymakers to update labour laws in line with technological advancements, including artificial intelligence.
IHRM National Chairman Phillip Odera added that the institute had transitioned into a fully-fledged state department to strengthen professional standards in human resource management.
Public Service Secretary Peris Bosire lauded Kenya’s progress in human capital development, affirming the government’s commitment to comprehensive reforms aimed at restoring integrity and efficiency in the public service.
