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Oliver Musembi and Clement Kamau

Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) said yesterday it had traced and recovered public assets corruptly acquired by individuals valued at Sh6.2 billion in the war against graft.

Recoveries include 53 acres of prime public land situated in Industrial Area along Mombasa Road valued at Sh5 billion, which has been earmarked for construction of low income houses under the Big Four agenda, according to EACC chief executive Twalib Mbarak.

In his speech during the commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day held at Ndumberi Stadium in Kiambu county, Mbarak said the commission has also instituted legal action seeking to recover Sh2.5 billion acquired illegally. 

The occasion was also graced by Attorney General Paul Kihara, EACC Chairman Eliud Wabukala and Kiambu Governor James Nyoro among other dignitaries.

“We have also witnessed development of rich jurisprudence from our courts on forfeiture of unexplained wealth.

The courts have clearly stated that any asset held by a public officer and is disproportionate to their known legitimate sources of income, will be deemed to have been derived from corruption.

You either prove that you acquired it lawfully, or you lose it,” Mbarak said in his speech delivered by his deputy Abdi Mohamed.

Kihara lauded the media for highlighting cases of graft and exposing individuals who have looted the country’s resources using their privileged positions:  “We thank the media for calling out corruption for what it is; blatant theft.” 

 The AG called on individuals to make a commitment to “fight the graft monster  and not just engage in sugar-coated speeches and seminars.”