Search for next DPP begins as Danstan Omari, Taib Ali Taib face interview panel

The search for the next Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) gained momentum after seven shortlisted candidates were interviewed by a Public Service Commission (PSC) Selection Panel on Tuesday.

Criminal lawyer Danstan Omari led the six other candidates in the battle to replace Noordin Haji as the third DPP under the 2010 Constitution.

The former teacher-turned-lawyer appeared before the Shadrack Mose-led PSC panel to present himself as the best suited to lead the office of the DPP.

“I intend to use my legal expertise to transform the ODPP if considered. I am an outsider and an experienced lawyer,” he said.

However, Omari faces stiff competition in the race from former Mombasa lawyer Taib Ali Taib, who is also a Special Prosecutor in the office of DPP.

“We’ve had an opportunity that, for many years, was unavailable, and that is to become available for a competitive interview for one of the positions of the government of Kenya. I celebrate the fact that we’re able to do this, 15 years ago this would’ve been impossible,” said Taib.

“Let us leave the panel to make their decision depending on their knowledge, experience and wisdom. I’m happy simply to have had the opportunity to present myself.”

Other than Omari and Taib, the vacant position of the DPP has attracted stiff competition from two senior assistant DPPs, Jacinta Nyamosi and Tabitha Wanyama Ouya, who also presented their CVs before the PSC select panel.

Former commissioner of the defunct electoral body ECK, Thomas Letangule, and David Ruto from EACC were also interviewed by the panel.

Day two, which is the final day of the selection exercise, will see 8 more candidates being interviewed as the race to find Kenya’s third DPP enters its penultimate stage.