Haron Sirima may be new Central Bank boss

The deputy governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, Mr Haron Sirima, is likely to be named the next head of the institution for the next four years.

Public Service Commission sources told the Nation that Dr Sirma performed the best among three candidates whose names have been handed over to President Kenyatta for appointment.

Yesterday State House spokesperson Manoah Esipisu said the President would make the announcement once he has evaluated the reports on all the candidates.

“He has to apply his mind before making such announcement. When he is ready we shall notify you,” Mr Esipisu said.

The President is expected to name the next Central Bank boss anytime but those in the know said Mr Sirima displayed strong leadership skills and his track record impressed the interviewing panel.

The President’s appointee will have to be approved by the National Assembly.

Alongside the new governor, Mr Kenyatta is expected to name the next Central Bank chairman and deputy governor.

According to Public Service Commission Chairperson Margaret Kobia, three names for each of the three positions have been forwarded.

Besides, Dr Sirima, others who were interviewed for the governor’s position were Dr Edward Sambili, current National Treasury economic secretary, Dr Geoffrey Ngungi Mwau, Dr Peninah Wanjira Kariuki and Mr Patrick Ngugi Njoroge.

The position attracted 22 applicants.

Current acting chairman, Dr Mbui Wagacha, may also be confirmed after his name was forwarded to President Kenyatta.  

Four candidates were interviewed for the position. They were Dr Wagacha, current Consolidated Bank of Kenya chairman Benson Akong’o Ateng’, Mr Nicholas Bartuiyot, a director at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies and lawyer Jairus Mohammed Nyaoga.