MP Geoffrey Wandeto: Corruption in Kenya cannot be cured through systems
By Joel Masibo, September 2, 2025Tetu Member of Parliament Geoffrey Wandeto has cast doubt on the e-procurement mode imposed by the government to curb corruption, saying graft in Kenya cannot be eradicated through systems such as this.
Speaking on a local TV station on Tuesday, August 2, 2025, amid the ongoing discussions around the government’s digitisation of procurement processes, Wandeto questioned the effectiveness of the platform, noting that it may fail to prevent massive fraud.
Wandeto referred to the recent Social Health Authority (SHA) fraud that has led to the loss of public funds. “We have a Ksh104 billion SHA system that cannot prevent a Ksh10 billion fraud. Corruption in this country will not be cured through systems… It is the new frontier for corruption,” Wandeto stated.
The MP argued that while digital platforms are introduced with the promise of transparency, they have not addressed the root problem of graft, human manipulation and lack of accountability.
Wandeto’s remarks add to a growing list of concerns from legislators, governors, and procurement experts over the recently rolled-out e-procurement initiative. Some leaders have hailed it as a tool for fairness and openness, while others share Wandeto’s fears that loopholes remain, giving corrupt officials new ways to exploit the system.
Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly Robert Alai is among the leaders who have backed the national government’s move to impose the electronic procurement system at both levels of government.
Taking to his X account on Monday, September 1, 2025, the Kileleshawa MCA said those opposing the move are influenced by what he calls corrupt government officials, adding it is the best thing to ever happen to the government.
”The e-procurement system is the best thing that is going to happen to the government. This system is what can cure the malady of pending bills. Those opposing it are just being influenced by corrupt government officers still looking to manipulate procurement and refuse to pay contractors,” Alai said.
However, the Council of Governors has maintained a firm position against the e-procurement, saying that forcing counties onto the system without sufficient consultation, capacity building, or guaranteed budgetary support will hamper counties’ ability to procure goods and services, pay suppliers and contractors on time, and run development projects.