The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) says it is yet to open any investigations into bribery in Parliament.
The Commission says it has not received any credible information on MPs extorting money from governors or members of the Executive.
However, the EACC confirmed there are several ongoing investigations targeting MPs in relation to the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NGCDF).
“We have not received any complaints of bribery by MPs. If we ever receive any credible information, then we shall definitely open investigations. I know the President at his level could be having information that we don’t have as of now,” EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud told journalists on Friday morning at Integrity Centre offices.
The anti-graft boss revealed that over the past eight months, the Commission has completed 89 high-profile cases.
“These investigation files have been submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), with recommendations to prosecute eighty-two (82) of the cases.”
According to Mohamud, four of these cases involve current and former County Governors; two former Cabinet Secretaries, a Principal Secretary, and CEOs and MDs of various state corporations.
“In addition, the Commission is at an advanced stage of investigating sitting Governors and 11 former Governors.”
The investigations relate to allegations of embezzlement of public funds, conflict of interest, money laundering, and possession of unexplained wealth, among other offences under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act.
The EACC boss did not reveal any specific names.
However, among those who have since recorded a statement with the Commission include Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, Marsabit Governor Abdi Mohamoud, while the anti-graft sleuths recently raided Busia County.
On Thursday, EACC summoned Garissa Governor Nathif Jama to record a statement next Monday in relation to graft claims.
“In order to address irregular recruitments, manipulation of payroll and payments of irregular allowances, embezzlement of mortgage and car loan funds at the counties, the Commission is actively pursuing cases worth approximately Sh1.6 billion involving 822 county officials,” Mohamud added.
From the beginning of this year, the Commission says it has recovered 12 properties corruptly acquired, valued at approximately Sh600 million, and over Sh105 million in cash.
“Further, the Commission has disrupted possible loss of Sh7.2 billion through proactive investigations. Notwithstanding the aforementioned interventions, there is continued feeling by Kenyans, especially the youthful population, that the level of corruption in the country is on the increase,” the CEO said.
He added: “This concerns the Commission as it does every responsible citizen of this country. While the Commission acknowledges the frustration by Kenyans, I wish to assure the country that the Commission will upscale both its preventive and enforcement mandates geared towards effectively combating corruption in the country.”
In the discharge of its mandate, the Commission reiterated its commitment to impartiality, professionalism, and adherence to the rule of law.
“I, therefore, call upon all actors in the justice sector to work together in a more coordinated and collaborative approach for a more accountable and public-centric government,” Mohamud said.
by GEOFFREY MOSOKU and CYRUS OMBATI
