The Kenyan government has initiated a review of the National Ethics and Anti-Corruption Policy to combat emerging forms of corruption and enhance prevention and reporting measures. This review aims to address new challenges such as artificial intelligence, cybercrime, human trafficking, and smuggling of persons. The policy, last reviewed in 2018, requires updates to effectively tackle these modern issues.
Public consultations for the review are being conducted in 24 counties, allowing citizens to propose measures to improve the fight against corruption. Principal Secretary for Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs Judith Pareno stated that these consultations will help identify areas needing improvement and gather experiences on corruption and challenges in reporting cases. The goal is to strengthen mechanisms to protect those who report corruption.
Corruption continues to hinder the delivery of essential public services, including healthcare, education, roads, and access to justice. Pareno emphasized that the Constitution demands transparency, accountability, and proper use of public funds. She urged young people, women, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities to participate in the consultations, sharing their unique challenges related to corruption.
One proposed change from the consultations is to conclude corruption cases within six months to prevent prolonged delays. This would ensure that suspects are either cleared or punished promptly. The review is being undertaken alongside the Whistleblowers Bill and proposed amendments to the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act currently before Parliament.
The Whistleblowers Bill seeks to protect individuals who report corruption by safeguarding their identities and protecting them from victimization. Pareno mentioned that all these instruments – the National Ethics and Anti-Corruption Policy review, the Whistleblowers Bill, and the amendments to the Anti-Corruption Act – are being developed together to strengthen the fight against corruption.
The revised policy aims to enhance measures for preventing, detecting, and combating corruption while promoting integrity and accountability in public institutions. By engaging citizens in the review process, the government hopes to create a more effective anti-corruption framework. Public participation is a constitutional requirement in policy development.
The consultations have already covered Nyandarua and Machakos counties, with 22 more counties to be visited. Pareno encouraged citizens to share their views and experiences, emphasizing that their input will influence the proposed changes. The updated policy is expected to improve Kenya's ability to prevent and combat corruption effectively.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has begun reviewing its National Ethics and Anti-Corruption Policy to address emerging forms of corruption.
- Public consultations are being held in 24 counties to gather citizens' input on improving anti-corruption measures.
- Proposed changes include concluding corruption cases within six months and protecting whistleblowers from victimization.
