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.
