The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has urged the National Assembly to prioritize and expedite the Whistleblowers Protection Bill to create a robust legal framework for safeguarding whistleblowers. This move aims to bolster anti-corruption efforts by encouraging more Kenyans to report and expose misuse of public funds.
EACC Spokesperson Eric Ngumbi emphasized the vital role whistleblowers play in curbing corruption, highlighting that the lack of comprehensive protection laws hinders their willingness to come forward. Speaking at the Regional Investigative Journalism Conference in Mombasa, Ngumbi noted that whistleblowers are behind many of the significant corruption investigations conducted by EACC.
However, fear of retaliation deters many from reporting corruption. Ngumbi pointed out that Kenya has yet to meet international standards for whistleblower protection, with the proposed bill still awaiting approval in Parliament.
The bill includes key provisions such as confidentiality, immunity from retaliation, legal protections, a whistleblower protection agency, and incentives. These measures aim to promote accountability and transparency in both public and private institutions.
Separately, EACC praised Kenyan media for its instrumental role in fighting corruption, stating that about 25% of the corruption cases investigated originate from media reports or journalists’ confidential tips. Ngumbi commended the media’s contributions to public accountability and shaping the anti-corruption agenda.
While the bill represents a crucial step in combating corruption, its passage and implementation face challenges, particularly regarding enforcement and the adequacy of protections offered to whistleblowers.
