In a major shake-up of Kenya’s public service rankings, Principal Secretary Julius Bitok of the State Department of Immigration has been named the best-performing PS in a survey conducted by Politrack Africa.
The survey, released on February 21, 2025, evaluated Principal Secretaries across various ministries based on efficiency, service delivery, and public perception.
Bitok topped the list with an impressive 76.5% approval rating, tying with Energy PS Alex Wachira for the number one spot. The survey, which assessed 1,068 respondents from across Kenya, highlighted Bitok’s exceptional leadership in streamlining Kenya’s immigration services, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks, and enhancing digital transformation in the sector.
Why Did Bitok Rank First?
Bitok’s leadership at the Immigration Department has been widely praised for its modernization efforts. Under his tenure, Kenya has seen:
✅ Faster Passport Processing – The turnaround time for passport issuance has significantly improved, with most applications now processed within two weeks, down from the previous months-long delays.
✅ Digitization of Immigration Services – The government has expanded its e-Citizen platform, making it easier for Kenyans to apply for travel documents and work permits online.
✅ Crackdown on Corruption – Bitok has spearheaded efforts to eliminate corrupt practices within immigration offices, leading to increased public trust in the department.
✅ Improved Border Control – His department has strengthened security measures at entry points, ensuring efficient screening while facilitating smoother movement for travelers.
Other Top Performers
While Bitok shined in Immigration, Health PS Mary Muthoni secured the second position with a 76.2% rating, reflecting her strong performance in handling Kenya’s public health crisis and implementing affordable healthcare reforms.
Mining PS Elijah Mwangi took the third spot, while Roads PS Joseph Mungai and Irrigation PS Ephantus Kimotho rounded out the top five.
Implications of the Survey
The survey results could play a crucial role in potential government reshuffles, with top performers like Bitok likely to retain their positions or be considered for higher roles. As Kenyans demand greater accountability, this ranking highlights those driving positive change in government.
With public service efficiency under the microscope, will other PSs step up their game? Or will Bitok continue to set the gold standard? Only time will tell!
