Ombudsman Office Appoints Naisiae Paloshe Tobiko as New CEO

The Commission on Administrative Justice (Office of the Ombudsman) has appointed Naisiae Paloshe Tobiko as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Commission Secretary, marking a new chapter in the institution’s leadership and administration.

CAJ announced the appointment on June 16, 2026, following the completion of a rigorous recruitment exercise that the commission said was conducted in line with constitutional and legal requirements.

The process was guided by Article 232 of the Constitution of Kenya, the Commission on Administrative Justice Act, and applicable Public Service Commission recruitment guidelines.

The commission said the recruitment attracted 40 applications from qualified professionals drawn from different sectors before a shortlist of 10 candidates was developed for interviews.

“The appointment follows the successful conclusion of a rigorous, transparent, competitive, and merit-based recruitment process conducted in strict compliance with Article 232 of the Constitution of Kenya, the Commission on Administrative Justice Act, and the applicable Public Service Commission guidelines on recruitment and selection,” the commission stated.

Tobiko Brings More Than 15 Years of Public Service Experience

Tobiko emerged as the most suitable candidate after undergoing assessment by an interview panel that evaluated leadership capacity, strategic vision, professional competence, integrity, and ability to oversee the institution’s mandate.

“The shortlisted candidates underwent a thorough assessment by an interview panel, which evaluated their leadership capabilities, strategic vision, professional competence, integrity, and capacity to provide effective stewardship of the Commission,” the statement read.

The new CEO joins the commission with more than 15 years of experience in governance, electoral management, and public administration.

Before her appointment, Tobiko served at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), where she held several senior positions.

She previously worked as a County Elections Manager, providing strategic leadership in electoral operations, institutional planning, stakeholder engagement, financial management, and governance processes.

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Former IEBC Official Takes Over Key Governance Role

During her time at the IEBC, Tobiko also served in roles including Manager, Commission Services; Manager, Field Services; Office Executive to the Chairperson; Personal Assistant to the Chairperson; and Constituency Elections Coordinator.

The commission said her experience in managing national electoral processes and strengthening institutional systems would support its mission of promoting administrative justice.

“She has provided strategic and operational leadership, coordinated national electoral processes, managed high-level stakeholder engagements, strengthened institutional governance systems, and supported the implementation of key organizational priorities,” the statement added.

Tobiko holds a Master of Arts degree from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Daystar University, with electives in Psychology and Community Development.

She has also undertaken professional training in strategic leadership development, democratic elections management, public relations, and public administration.

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Commission Outlines Expectations Under New Leadership

CAJ said Tobiko’s appointment would strengthen institutional leadership and improve service delivery as it continues implementing programmes aimed at promoting accountability and transparency in public institutions.

The commission expects her to enhance operational efficiency, improve stakeholder engagement, and support the realization of its strategic objectives.

“As the Accounting Officer and Chief Executive Officer of the institution, Ms Tobiko will provide strategic and transformative leadership in the implementation of the Commission’s programmes and policies, enhance operational efficiency and institutional effectiveness,” CAJ said.

The Ombudsman’s office further noted that her role would be central in advancing administrative justice, addressing maladministration in public service, facilitating access to information, and protecting citizens’ rights in their interactions with government institutions.

“The high calibre of applications received reflects the confidence that professionals continue to place in the Commission and underscores the importance of its mandate in promoting good governance, constitutionalism, accountability, and responsive public administration,” the statement said.

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Commission on Administrative Justice Chairperson Charles Dulo during a press briefing on Feb 4
PHOTO/Ombudsman