Political Corruption in Kenya 

By Mary Kavesa 

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

In the corridors of power, where decisions affecting millions of Kenyans are made, lurks a silent killer of democracy and economic progress – political corruption.

It’s a pervasive toxin that festers within the veins of governance. From clandestine deals in smoke-filled rooms to the brazen misuse of public office with funds for personal gain. 

This undermines trust in institutions, distorts policy priorities and even perpetuates inequality.  

Manifestations vary, but the impact is uniformly detrimental. 

As we navigate the complexities of modern governance, the challenge of rooting out corruption becomes increasingly urgent. 

This article explodes the insidious nature of political corruption, its far-reaching consequences and the efforts to combat it effectively.

In the current landscape of political affairs, the specter of corruption looms at large, casting a shadow over principles of democracy and governance. 

Across the nations particularly Kenya, headlines continually expose corruption scandals involving bribery, embezzlement of public funds by mostly high profile people.

For instance, on 22 July 2019, Henry Rotich, Kenya’s finance minister at that time and his principal secretary were arrested for corruption allegations over the multi-billion shilling Kimwarer and Aror dam scandal. 

This project could have been a gateway to many people as it could have provided job opportunities for many hence curbing joblessness, reduce levels of poverty and crime in the society.

Nevertheless, the many of the power holding tend to favour only those from same background, ethnic group, tribe or even race.

Regardless of some of them being incompetent in the field, they would still sacrifice their funds or anything they can use to just be in power. 

As a result of this, competition for power and resources has become very evident among different people of different ethnic groups.

For example, the Goldenburg scandal in 1990s under President Daniel Arap Moi regime and the Anglo Leasing scandal in the early 2000s under the President Mwai Kibaki’s regime, cronyism was very evident.

The top government officials and the president’s close  counterparts and friends benefited handsomely from them at the expense of Kenyans.

This clearly highlighted challenges of corruption and favouritism within the country’s political landscape.

Moreover, the consequences of political corruption extended not only locally, but also internationally. 

Kenya’s reputation for corruption has international ramifications, affecting foreign investment, aid relationships and also diplomatic ties. 

International organizations and donors have oftenly have conditions for aid and assistance on improvements in governance and anti- corruption efforts. 

For instance, In 2017, the United States government cut off health funding to Kenya over widespread corruption in the Ministry of Health. 

USAID suspended $21m (Ksh2.73 billion) funding for activities carried out by a number of the ministry’s department over corruption and weak accounting procedures. 

Addressing political corruption  requires a multifaceted approach. 

It begins with robust legal frameworks that force transparency, integrity, just and fair society and accountability. 

Anti-corruption groups such as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Directorate  of Criminal Investigation have been formed though often hampered by political interference, inadequate resources and insufficient independence to perform to the bar. 

The church, society and parents as well are not left behind yarn for an accountable, transparent, just, fair and trusted government from their representatives so as to be good example to the growing youth in the country.

A culture of ethical leadership and civic responsibility ought to be promoted by leaders and led by an emulateable example, demonstrating honesty, a commitment to serving the public interest above their personal gain. 

The civil society has played a role in combating political corruption by holding leaders accountable and advocating for reforms to strengthen democratic norms.

In conclusion, the issue of political corruption though remaining a catalyst and a pervasive toxin in the society worldwide particularly, in Kenya, it needs to be addressed in a more serious and devoted manner.

As highlighted, its effects are far-reaching, underming trust in democratic process, institutions and many public offices. 

Not only transparency and accountability needed to address it but also civic engagement and a committed ethical governance. 

More so, by holding leaders accountable and fostering a culture of integrity, we can strive towards a future where political corruption no longer threatens the foundation of democracy and social justice.