Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has found himself at the centre of a dramatic standoff at Harambee House after a civil servant living with disability, Philis Anyango Ouko, spent three consecutive nights in her office to block its demolition during ongoing renovations.
Phyllis Anyango, who has served in the civil service for over 20 years and currently works as a secretary in the Ministry of Interior, refused to vacate her office on the first floor after being ordered to relocate to the eighth floor.
She cited inaccessibility due to her disability, as she uses a wheelchair.
“I have my things in my office. I have my documents; I have my equipment. I can’t leave because I’m being watched like a rat, and orders have been issued — ‘The moment she steps out, demolish her office,’” said Phyllis Anyango.
Phyllis Onyango Defies Orders to Vacate Her Office by Felix Koskei
Phyllis says her office is the last remaining on the first floor, as the others have been demolished. She says she tried to raise her concerns with the Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, but her pleas were ignored.
“There are other offices closer and more accessible than the one on the eighth floor. That’s why I’m here, because nobody is listening, and nobody is fighting for me. I’ve overcome numerous challenges to reach my current position. It hasn’t been easy, not even securing the position I hold,” she added.
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The civil servant argued that moving her to the eighth floor would endanger her safety due to her reliance on a wheelchair. In the event of a power outage or lift malfunction, she fears she could be stranded.
“In case the lift breaks down or there’s a power failure, I’ve asked what alternative safety measures are in place to ensure I can exit safely, but no one has answered,” Phyllis said.
Details About Persons with Disabilities Act
This incident comes just months after President William Ruto signed the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025 into law on May 8, 2025, at State House, Nairobi. The new law replaced the outdated Persons with Disabilities Act No. 14 of 2003.
It was sponsored by nominated Senator Crystal Asige and co-sponsored by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.
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The Act requires both public and private entities to comply with adjustment orders that ensure full accessibility in physical and digital spaces. This includes making buildings, public facilities, and digital services fully accessible to persons with disabilities (PWDs).
State-owned entities are also mandated to reserve at least 5% of residential and commercial buildings for PWDs, promoting inclusive infrastructure.
Additionally, the law promotes inclusive education, guaranteeing that persons with disabilities can access quality education without discrimination.
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