Talk of Town: Powerful PS tells off minister over hiring of parastatal chief

 A Principal Secretary is reported to have defied her Cabinet Secretary, ignoring his instructions regarding the recent recruitment of a top official at a parastatal under the ministry. The recruitment has since been described as a charade, with claims that the PS had long assured one of the candidates that the job was his, and that the interview would be a mere formality. True to her word, the man secured the position - prompting protests from other applicants, who appealed to the CS to intervene. However, the PS reportedly dismissed the minister’s concerns, insisting that the candidate would get the job with or without his approval.

***

Politician berates senior diplomat

 Did a veteran political leader tell off a senior diplomat over the ongoing anti-government demonstrations? Well, our little bird within the corridors of power learnt that the man was categorical in his meeting with the diplomat that the government had done its part in addressing issues affecting the country. The man also told the diplomat that the youth also need to be civil and present their issues through the laid down procedures and not use violence. The man’s handlers present in the room could not believe how bold their boss was in telling off the diplomat from the powerful Western that is often known to have its way.

***

Days numbered for committee chairman

 Are the days numbered for a committee chairman who recently raised concern over the number of projects being channelled to the Nyanza region? Our mole in Parliament has learnt that more members have raised complaints about the man’s conduct, prompting the House leadership to weigh options regarding his continued usefulness at the in the committee. Members further claim he is incompetent, unresponsive to their concerns, and unconvincing when answering questions. The coming days may prove pivotal for the legislator - for if the government manages to calm the current political storm, his removal could come swiftly.

***

Murmurs over stingy opposition leader

 There are loud murmurs over one of the leaders in the new opposition outfit who reportedly doesn’t want to spend his money in any of the activities. Leaders in the outfit were heard complaining in hushed tones that nothing comes out of the man’s pocket, wondering how the opposition will conduct its political activities ahead of the 2027 polls. In the unlikely event he gives something small to settle even breakfast during a meeting, the man demands accountability to the last coin. His colleagues are not sure how to handle him during their activities given the many crucial meetings they have to hold.

***

Party leader plots to jump out of deal

 Still in the opposition circles, is a party leader in the opposition outfit planning to dump his colleagues? Well, our sources have learnt that the man sent his emissaries to initiate talks with a senior government official about a possible working formula ahead of the 2027 polls. The man wants to use the talks as a bargaining chip among his colleagues to get their backing, failure to which he will join the government side. His handlers say that their boss will not back anyone and has vowed not to be in political cold after the 2027 polls.