‘Fight against corruption is a matter of life and death’ – EACC boss Oginde

The chairperson of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission of Kenya (EACC) David Oginde has claimed the fight against graft in the country is a matter of life and death.

Oginde made the remarks during the International Anti-Corruption Day held at the Murang’a Technical University on Saturday, December 9, 2023.

“For us Kenya, the fight against corruption is a matter of life and death. I wonder how many of us believe that the fight against corruption is a matter of life and death.

“When we observe how some of us respond to the fight against corruption, it leaves one with the impression that we are merely playing games and that Corruption is not such a serious matter,” Oginde said.

Criticism against Parliament

The EACC boss also took a swipe at the Members of Parliament, whom he says have sponsored bills that are only meant to weaken the anti-corruption agency.

“In the recent past, we have witnessed some of our members of Parliament sponsor motions to dilute the laws necessary for fighting corruption.

“One such proposed amendment seeks to remove procurement breaches from legal redress and place them under administrative action. Another seeks to exempt any person convicted of corruption from being free to serve in public office.

“In the Conflict of Interest Bill before the House, there are attempts being made to water it down so that public officers can trade with the government,” he added.

Apart from blaming the parliament, Oginde also pointed out how actions by political parties and some communities have worked against EACC’s effort to combat corruption.

“Furthermore, we have seen political parties, certain communities, or regions gang up against law enforcement agencies when a corruption suspect is arrested or is being questioned.

“The impression given is that we do not believe that the fight against corruption is a matter of life and death,” Oginde continued.

Oginde’s promise

The Integrity House boss, however, vowed to intensify the fight against corruption, no matter the danger they will face in their course of action.

“This is our commitment as EACC – we are going to fight corruption as a matter of life and death.

“We are aware that some of the men and women involved in corruption are armed and dangerous, but because you are an enemy to the destiny and future of our people, we are going to face you with courage and boldness,” he concluded.