Governors Nassir, Barasa take integrity oaths as they assume office

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and his Kakamega counterpart Fernandes Barasa have committed to integrity during their tenure in office as County bosses.

The two did not only swear to discharge their mandate in accordance with the law but also took an integrity oath to demonstrate that they will not dig their hands into public coffers for selfish gains.

Both oaths were administered by High Court Judges.

The law requires that all newly elected or appointed state officers sign the integrity codes before they assume office.

The other 45 governors also signed the integrity codes during their inauguration ceremonies.

EACC was given a nod by Chief Justice Martha Koome to have the Code signed on the swearing-in day, in an attempt to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.

"Enforcement of the Code is part of the ongoing efforts by EACC to implement Chapter Six of the Constitution with a view to escalating the fight against corruption in the incoming national and county governments," EACC's Head of Corporate Affairs and Communication Eric Ngumbi said.

He spoke while leading Nassir and his deputy Francis Thoya in signing the integrity oath.

Ngumbi said that signing of the Code shows an officer's commitment and pledge to the public that he will ensure his administration will be corruption free.

It also shows that the leader will, during their tenure, uphold Integrity, prevent corruption and not betray the public trust.

He added that the Commission also requires all newly elected and appointed state officers to declare their wealth within 30 days of assuming office.

He pointed out that wealth declaration is also a way of enforcing integrity.

"Wealth Declaration Forms contain crucial information necessary for corruption investigations and asset recovery by the Commission. The declarations will therefore assist EACC in its work," he said.

EACC said that compliance with the integrity codes by the Governors will enable them to overcome some of the integrity challenges currently facing counties.

Ngumbi said the malpractices noted in counties, include embezzlement of public funds, payments for services not rendered, conflict of interest abuse of office, inflated costs of projects and fraudulent payroll involving ghost workers.

He maintained that the anti-graft body is investigating the allegations to inform interventions which may include asset recovery and prosecution of the culpable persons.