The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has revealed measures to prevent political interference in its fight against corruption.
During a meeting with the Senate Justice, Legal Affairs, and Human Rights Committee, EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud said the agency remains committed to tackling corruption despite ongoing challenges.
The session, chaired by Vice Chair Senator Veronica Maina, aimed to assess the implementation of the Senate’s resolution on the state of the nation, with a focus on corruption.
Mohamud reported that between 2021 and 2024, EACC received more than 15,000 complaints related to bribery, corruption, economic crimes, and unethical conduct.
He also revealed that the commission had recovered assets worth KES 28 billion and was in the process of reclaiming another Sh50 billion believed to have been acquired through corruption.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah questioned the commission’s approach to tackling corruption in county governments, arguing that procurement and revenue collection remained key areas of concern.
Senator Tom Ojienda further pressed Mohamud on political interference and legal loopholes that hinder the fight against graft.
“The report highlights challenges such as inadequate legal frameworks and political interference. Could the CEO elaborate on the specific legislative amendments needed and the strategies being employed to mitigate external pressures that impede effective investigation and prosecution of corruption cases?” Ojienda asked.
In response, Mohamud outlined proposed reforms, including the fast-tracking of the Conflict of Interest Bill 2023 and the Whistleblower Protection Bill 2023.
“We have recommended several legislative amendments, including the fast-tracking of the Conflict of Interest Bill 2023 and the Whistle-blower Protection Bill 2023, which are crucial for strengthening our anti-corruption framework,” Mohamud said.
He stressed that tackling corruption requires not just law enforcement but also public education and ethical leadership.
“Addressing the deep-rooted culture of corruption and impunity requires a multi-faceted approach involving not only robust enforcement but also enhanced public education and the promotion of ethical leadership.”
Senator Maina acknowledged the commission’s progress but urged EACC to focus more on corruption at the county level and push for necessary legislative reforms.
“It is evident that while progress has been made, significant hurdles remain in the fight against corruption. The committee urges the EACC to intensify its efforts, particularly in addressing the vulnerabilities within county governments and advocating for the necessary legislative reforms to create a more effective and deterrent anti-corruption regime,” Maina said.
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