In a shocking revelation, the Public Service Commission (PSC) has exposed a significant number of civil servants who secured jobs and promotions through the use of counterfeit academic and professional documents.

The PSC, citing a preliminary audit report from ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) as well as the issuing authorities, has sounded an alarm over the widespread use of fraudulent credentials within the public service.

PSC Chairman, Anthony Muchiri, disclosed that the preliminary report revealed a distressing reality, where forged academic and professional certificates were instrumental in securing appointments, promotions, and re-designations in the public service.

In a stern letter addressed to chief executives of State corporations, he stated, "MDAs with verified cases of forged or fraudulently obtained certificates have instituted disciplinary action, including termination of service for affected officers."

This revelation sends shockwaves through the public sector, as the affected civil servants now face dire consequences.

According to Muchiri, all individuals who obtained employment with falsified documents will be immediately removed from their positions and stripped of all associated benefits.

"Such persons shall not be entitled to any form of benefits, including pensions or unpaid allowances and accrued leave," Muchiri added.

In a move to address the issue comprehensively, the PSC has mandated that all MDAs must conclude the verification of academic and professional papers by December 31, 2023

This directive aims to ensure the eradication of counterfeit credentials within the public service.

In addition, the PSC Chairman emphasized the severity of the matter, declaring that the cases ought to be forwarded to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.

He underscored the need for legal proceedings to be initiated and for efforts to be made to recover both the funds owed and the assets acquired as a result of these fraudulent activities.

"The cases should be referred to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations for prosecution and recovery of monies owed and assets procured from the fraudulent activities," Muchiri stated.

This indicates the determination to hold those responsible for this deception accountable for their actions.

The scandal of forged academic and professional documents extends beyond the public sector, as the Commission for University Education has previously raised concerns about the widespread use of fake degrees to secure jobs in both the public and private sectors.

Even some politicians were caught with counterfeit certificates, intended for use in elective positions.

To counter the prevalence of fraudulent academic papers in the job market, the government, through the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), launched the 'Report Cheti Mwitu' system in 2021.

This initiative encourages the reporting of fake certificates and aims to uphold the integrity of academic and professional qualifications.

In light of these revelations, the government is taking resolute steps to preserve the integrity of the public service and maintain the trust of the citizens.

The PSC's rigorous measures, including immediate dismissals and criminal investigations, send a clear message that forgery within the public service will not be tolerated.