Nakuru County Governor Susan Kihika has nominated NTV Swahili managing editor cum news anchor, Salim Swaleh for the role of Information and Communications Technology, ICT, e-Government and Public Communication chief officer.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, Swaleh confirmed the nomination, adding that his name was among 21 names forwarded for vetting and approval by the county assembly.
According to Swaleh, his new role would involve working under the County Executive Committee (CEC) within the County government.
"Yes, it's the same industry but a different trajectory. The role of a public communication chief officer is different from a communication spokesperson in that they work under the CEC within the county government."
The news anchor added that he would tender his resignation to Nation Media Group once the approval process is completed.
"My name was among 21 forwarded for vetting. Once the process is done and I'm approved, I will hand over my resignation," he stated.
Other journalists whose names were forwarded include Nation Media Group's Nakuru-based photographer Titus Cheboite Kigen (photographer), Martin Gichinga (director of communication) and Kigotho Mwangi (deputy director of communication).
In addition, former Nakuru Level Five Hospital superintendent John Murima and Nakuru County Assembly Clerk Joseph Mutua Malinda were nominated to the House as Medical Services and Finance and Revenue Administration respectively.
The nomination comes as governors seek to strengthen their administration, two months after they took their oath of office. This has seen a section of journalists get appointed to various roles within county governments.
Royal Media Services (RMS) radio programmes manager, Charles Odhiambo, was appointed as chief of staff for Homa Bay County.
Citizen TV reporter, Nicky Gitonga was also appointed as the Director of Communications and spokesperson for the Kwale County Government.
