President William Ruto has issued a stern warning to anti-corruption agencies, accusing them of sluggishness in combating graft. Speaking during a joint sitting of the 13th Parliament, he declared that it will no longer be business as usual for bodies like the EACC, DPP, DCI, Asset Recovery Agency, Treasury, and the judiciary.
Ruto criticized the Director of Public Prosecutions for dropping high-profile cases due to witness challenges and expressed frustration with prolonged corruption cases in courts, contrasting them with the speedy resolution of election petitions. He also condemned the practice of suspects obtaining anticipatory bail and challenged MPs to expedite the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2023, aimed at barring graft suspects from office.
The President urged the Treasury to implement an e-procurement system by April 30, stating that only transactions through the system would be honored.
Ruto’s remarks follow public concern over his administration’s commitment to tackling corruption, especially after high-profile cases involving his allies, such as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Public Service CS Aisha Jumwa, were dismissed.
Critics have questioned the administration’s approach, citing delayed asset declarations and Kenya’s recent grey listing by anti-money laundering watchdogs. However, Ruto reassured the nation of his resolve, vowing decisive action against corruption backed by credible evidence.
The President called for transparency, efficiency, and adherence to integrity, emphasizing that independent institutions must meet public expectations in addressing graft.
