Bahatinews

The move comes after challenges in the system affected the timely completion and submission of TPAD reports by teachers and school administrators.

Many teachers had raised concerns over difficulties accessing the online platform, prompting the commission to grant additional time for schools to finalize the appraisal process. 

The extension is expected to give teachers enough time to complete pending tasks and ensure that all required records are submitted correctly.

At the same time, TSC is gearing up for a large-scale recruitment exercise aimed at addressing teacher shortages in schools. 

Thousands of teaching positions are expected to be filled, with Junior School institutions among the key beneficiaries.

Education stakeholders have welcomed the extension, saying it will reduce pressure on teachers who were racing against the earlier deadline. 

They also noted that accurate TPAD records are important as the commission continues to monitor teacher performance and plan staffing needs.

Teachers are now encouraged to use the extra days wisely and ensure all appraisal details are updated before the new deadline. Schools have also been urged to support staff in completing the process without delays.

What is constitutionally meant to be a routine audit follow-up has increasingly turned into a heated political issue, with accusations and counter-accusations from both sides.

Through the Council of Governors (CoG), county chiefs have protested what they describe as frequent and hostile summonses by the Senate’s County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC).

CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi has expressed concern that some governors are being subjected to intimidation, humiliation, and what he termed a political witch-hunt during appearances before the committee.

The governors have also complained about the manner in which the hearings are conducted, arguing that the process sometimes shifts from financial scrutiny to political confrontation.

In protest, some county leaders have boycotted CPAC sessions and called for reforms in the structure and conduct of the committee.

Under the Constitution, the Senate is mandated to oversee county governments and ensure prudent use of public resources.

CPAC reviews financial statements prepared by counties and questions governors and county executives on issues raised by the Auditor-General. The aim is to promote transparency and prevent misuse of taxpayer money.

However, the oversight process has often been tense. In 2025 and early 2026, several governors were summoned over audit queries involving questionable expenditures, procurement irregularities, and gaps in financial reporting.

Failure to honour Senate summons can result in sanctions, including being cited for contempt of Parliament.

In some cases, Senate scrutiny has led to further investigations by national agencies. For instance, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma was summoned by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over alleged irregular procurement and revenue diversion amounting to about KSh1.4 billion, concerns that emerged during oversight sessions.

The situation has been further complicated by claims from governors that some senators demand favours or use the hearings for political mileage.

On the other hand, some senators have publicly stated that they have been offered bribes by county officials seeking lenient treatment.

Supporters of strict oversight argue that tough questioning is necessary to curb corruption at the county level and protect public funds.

Critics, however, warn that aggressive or politically charged approaches risk undermining devolution and blurring the line between accountability and political pressure.

Rudisha confirmed the sad news on Friday, December 19, 2025, via a statement shared on X, describing the loss as a deeply difficult moment for him and his family.

“Hello, I just wanted to share some very sad news. My mother, Naomi Matasi, AKA Mama Poroko, passed away this morning, and it’s been a tough time for me. I deeply appreciate all your support and understanding during this period,” Rudisha wrote.

Naomi Matasi’s death comes at a time when her son continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest 800-meter runners in history. 

David Rudisha captured global attention with his remarkable performances, including back-to-back Olympic gold medals at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Games. At London 2012, he set the world record for the 800m with an unprecedented time of 1:40.91—a record that still stands today.

Rudisha’s illustrious career also includes two World Championship titles (2011 and 2015), two Diamond League victories (2010 and 2011), and the distinction of being the only athlete to have run under 1:41 in the 800m. 

Beyond the 800m, he holds the world best for the 500m and the African best in the 600m. Recognized for his consistency and dominance on the track, Rudisha has also been named the IAAF World Athlete of the Year in 2010 and earned three consecutive Track and Field News Athlete of the Year awards.

While Naomi Matasi largely lived a private life away from the public eye, her influence on her son’s journey has been evident. 

She is remembered as a supportive figure whose guidance and encouragement helped shape Rudisha into the disciplined and determined athlete admired worldwide. The moniker “Mama Poroko” reflects her nurturing role within her family and community.

David Rudisha, now retired from professional athletics, has also ventured into public service, announcing in May 2022 his candidacy for election in Kenya’s Kilgoris Constituency as an independent candidate. 

Beyond politics, he has continued to serve as a role model for young athletes, emphasizing discipline, perseverance, and community responsibility. In March 2024, he represented World Athletics as an ambassador during the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow, Scotland.

The passing of Naomi Matasi is a personal tragedy for Rudisha, his family, and the wider athletics community that has followed his career closely. Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow athletes, and Kenyans at large, celebrating her role in raising one of the nation’s greatest sporting icons.

As the family navigates this period of grief, supporters are called upon to respect their privacy while extending condolences and moral support to David Rudisha. 

While the arrangements for her funeral have not been detailed, it is expected that the family and close friends will honor her life in a dignified manner, reflecting the respect she garnered from those around her.