The US government has welcomed the recent crackdown on corruption by President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration.
Outgoing US ambassador Robert Godec in a statement noted that the vice has for a long time undermined ‘prosperity, security, and democracy.’
Godec applauded the swift action taken by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Noordin Haji and the Director of Criminal Investigations, George Kinoti to bring to book those implicated in the loss of Sh.9 billion in the National Youth Service (NYS).
The ambassador also asked the Judiciary to ensure that justice is served and the rule of law adhered to.
“No country is free of corruption, and many of ours have faced challenges. There are no shortcuts to tackling the problem. It requires strong Kenyan political leadership, a commitment to zero tolerance for corruption, and all government and law enforcement agencies working together,” Godec said.
The foreign envoy echoed President Kenyatta’s sentiments saying that those responsible should be prosecuted regardless of political party, social stature, or personal connections.
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“Individuals or organizations found guilty of stealing should be held accountable, to include forfeiting the proceeds of their crimes. And Kenyans need strong, reliable institutions and systems that reduce the opportunities for corruption,” he added.
He urged Kenyans to stand together and fight corruption even as the US administration provides wide ranging assistance and support.
33 people were on Tuesday arraigned in court over the NYS scandal and will be remanded for at least a week. Among them was PS Public Service, Youth and Gender Lilian Omollo and NYS Director General Richard Ndubai.
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