Kiyiapi quits to vie for top seat
Prof. James Ole Kiyiapi (left) flanked by the Minister for Education Mutula Kilonzo after announcing his resignation at Jogoo house on April 16, 2012. PHOTO / JENNIFER MUIRURI
Education permanent secretary James Ole Kiyiapi on Monday resigned from the Civil Service to run for the presidency in the coming General Election.
Speaking during a farewell party organised outside the ministry headquarters at Jogoo House in Nairobi, Prof Kiyiapi said: “I’m taking this bold step, I’m not running away from the public service ...However, I’m only responding to a calling for a higher level of national service.”
Prof Kiyiapi, 51, said the country was faced with social-economic challenges, which required professionals in leadership positions to give people hope.
“For some of us, this mission and call to national duty cannot wait,” the former PS added.
He said he would address issues on national unity and cohesion, poverty, youth unemployment, children education and health, challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability.
Prof Kiyiapi has served for 20 years in the public service, first as a lecturer at Moi University before being appointed a permanent secretary in the Environment, Medical Services and Education ministries.
During the ceremony, he thanked President Kibaki for appointing him to serve in the three ministries.
“I’m grateful that President Kibaki did not sack me, when I first expressed a desire to replace him as the country’s next Head of State,” he said.
Prof Kiyiapi, who described himself as a reformer, said he was leaving the Civil Service “with my head held high” and said he had strived to serve by upholding the highest standards of public accountability and to defend public interest.
He praised former Civil Service boss Francis Muthaura for being a great source of inspiration and mentor during his tenure in public service.
Speaking during the occasion, Education minister Mutula Kilonzo, who referred to Prof Kiyiapi as “President in Waiting” urged Kenyans to elect a “reformer” as the next Head of State.
In an apparent swipe at current presidential aspirants, the Education minister said: “You can aspire to be President without going to tribal gatherings (to endorse your candidature).”
