NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 29 – Media Council of Kenya (MCK) CEO David Omwoyo is among 13 candidates shortlisted for the position of Data Protection Commissioner.

Other shortlisted candidates include Otieno Oscar Onyango, Shalle Mohamed Abdi, Kirwa Solomon, Nyonges John Walubengo, Cheronoh Lynneth, Sitienei Lydia Chelagat, Lobuin Isaac Eregae, Mbiuki Jasper Micheni and Anditi Stephen Odhiambo, among others.

According to the Public Service Commission (PSC), 152 candidates applied for the position, which is the head of the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC).

PSC began the search for a new Data Protection Commissioner last month following the impending end of the term of the inaugural office holder, Immaculate Kassait.

Kassait is expected to leave office later this year after serving a non-renewable six-year term as head of the ODPC.

The incoming commissioner will be responsible for regulating the processing of personal data, protecting individuals’ privacy and enforcing the Data Protection Act.

Kassait became Kenya’s first Data Protection Commissioner following the establishment of the ODPC and has overseen the implementation and enforcement of the Data Protection Act, which sets out rules governing how organisations collect, process and protect personal information.