The County Executive Committee (CEC) is the highest executive organ in a county, equivalent to the national Cabinet. Each Kenyan county has 10 CEC Members, appointed by the Governor, who head various departments.
This guide explains the CEC qualifications, appointment process, job functions, and the current County Executives Committee Salary as approved by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
Whether you’re a student, job seeker, or simply curious about county governance, this article breaks down everything you need to know.
What is a County Executive Committee (CEC)?
Under Article 179 of the Constitution of Kenya, each county has a County Executive Committee made up of:
- The Governor
- The Deputy Governor
- A maximum of 10 CEC Members
Each CEC member functions like a “County Minister,” heading departments such as:
- Finance
- Health
- Transport
- Agriculture
- Lands
- Water
- Education
- Trade, etc.
They are responsible for policy formulation, oversight of county departments, and implementation of development projects.
County Executive Committee Qualifications in Kenya
To qualify for appointment as a CEC Member, an individual must meet these requirements:
1. Academic Qualifications
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- A Master’s degree is an added advantage
- Professional qualifications relevant to the docket are highly preferred (CPA, HR certifications, Engineering, Law, etc.)
2. Experience Requirements
- At least 5 years of experience in a managerial, professional, or leadership role.
- Proven track record in the relevant field (public or private sector).
- Experience in public administration is an added advantage.
3. Integrity Requirements
As per Chapter Six of the Constitution:
- Must be free of corruption charges
- Must pass EACC and DCI clearance
- Must submit KRA, HELB, and CRB compliance documents
4. Leadership & Governance Skills
Candidates must demonstrate:
- Strategic planning ability
- Budget and financial management skills
- Public policy understanding
- Strong communication and leadership skills
5. Eligibility Restrictions
A person is disqualified from being appointed if:
- They are a recent political candidate
- They hold a full-time public office
- They have been dismissed from public service due to misconduct
Functions of County Executive Committee Members
CEC Members play a major role in the running of county governments. Their core functions include:
1. Policy Development
- Developing county policies, regulations, and strategic plans
- Drafting legislation for approval by the County Assembly
2. Budgeting & Financial Management
- Preparing departmental budgets
- Ensuring proper expenditure and financial reporting
- Mobilizing resources for development
3. Oversight of County Departments
- Supervising Chief Officers
- Ensuring service delivery
- Monitoring county projects and programs
4. Advising the Governor
- Providing technical advice
- Making recommendations to improve governance
5. Representing the County
- Engaging with national government ministries
- Coordinating intergovernmental relations
- Participating in sector working groups
6. Ensuring Public Participation
- Conducting stakeholder meetings
- Communicating county decisions to the public
County Executives Committee Salary in Kenya (SRC 2026)
The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) is responsible for setting salaries for state and county officials. Below is the updated County Executives Committee Salary structure:
CEC Member Salary (SRC 2025)
| Item | Amount (KES) |
|---|---|
| Basic Salary | Ksh 404,250 |
| House Allowance | Ksh 100,000 |
| Commuter Allowance | Official County Vehicle Provided |
| Other Allowances | Varies by county (up to Ksh 60,000) |
| Gross Monthly Salary | ~Ksh 504,250+ |
Benefits & Privileges
CEC Members also enjoy:
- Official government car with driver
- Air travel for county duties
- Per diem allowances for local & international travel
- Medical cover for family
- Retirement benefits
- Security, as approved by the county government
Chief Officer Salary (For Comparison)
Many people search for this, too, because Chief Officers are appointed directly under CECs.
| Item | Amount (KES) |
|---|---|
| Basic Salary | Ksh 195,410 |
| House Allowance | Ksh 73,000 |
| Commuter Allowance | Ksh 20,000 |
| Gross Salary | ~Ksh 288,410 |
How County Executive Committee Members Are Appointed
Step-by-step process:
- Governor advertises the positions
- Applicants submit academic and compliance documents
- Shortlisted candidates undergo interviews
- Governor nominates preferred candidates
- County Assembly vets them
- County Assembly approves or rejects appointments
- Successful candidates take the oath of office
How Long Does a CEC Member Serve?
A County Executive Committee Member serves:
- A term of 5 years
- Renewable at the will of the Governor
- Can be dismissed due to incompetence, gross misconduct, or violation of the Constitution
FAQ About the County Executives Committee Salary
1. Do CEC Members pay taxes?
Yes. Income tax, PAYE, and NHIF deductions apply.
2. Are CEC salaries the same in all counties?
Yes, the SRC salary scale is standard across Kenya.
3. Can a CEC Member be impeached?
Yes. The County Assembly can remove a CEC Member for:
- Gross misconduct
- Violation of law
- Poor performance
- Abuse of office
4. Are CEC Members politicians?
Not exactly. They are appointed technocrats, not elected leaders.
Conclusion
County Executive Committee Members play a critical role in ensuring counties run effectively. Their positions require solid qualifications, leadership experience, and high ethical standards.
The County Executives Committee Salary is among the highest in county service due to the responsibilities they carry, the technical expertise required, and the direct impact they have on county development.
This guide gives you everything you need to know about these important county roles—from qualifications and functions to salary structure and appointment process.
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