Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has stated that Members of Parliament demanded a bribe during his vetting.

Muturi, who also served as the Speaker of the National Assembly, made the claims on Monday, September 15, 2025. Posting on his X account, he accused MPs of shamelessly seeking bribes to approve his appointment to Cabinet.

“During my Cabinet vetting, Members of Parliament shamelessly demanded a bribe. I told them straight: if I am not qualified, reject me. But I will never buy approval from leaders already pocketing hefty salaries and sitting allowances from the taxpayer,” Muturi said.

He added that one female legislator sent him a text message urging him to bribe, arguing that “others had done it.” Muturi said he turned down the request and insisted that leadership should not be for sale.

“What shocked me most was a lady MP who personally texted me, urging me to bribe because “others had done it.” Imagine that, an elected leader openly campaigning for corruption instead of upholding integrity. I refused. I said No.”

The former CS said the incident reflects the depth of corruption in Parliament. He warned that if MPs reduce themselves to brokers of public office, the institution loses its role of serving Kenyans.

“If MPs reduce themselves to brokers of public office, then Parliament ceases to serve the people. How can the fight against corruption be taken seriously when those entrusted to vet leaders are busy auctioning the process?”

Also watch Muturi’s vetting as the public service cs nominee.

Muturi tears into Ruto

The same day, Muturi, while on a morning show, also used the platform to criticise President William Ruto, questioning his commitment to the fight against graft. Speaking on Kameme TV, he argued that Kenya cannot make progress if the war on corruption is led by the President.

“If Ruto is the one fighting the problem, then we are in deep trouble,” Muturi said.

He further stated that key institutions, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), have been weakened under the current administration. According to Muturi, government contracts such as State House renovations and stadium projects have been awarded through direct procurement against professional advice.

Muturi also dismissed Ruto’s 15 billion tree initiative as a “scam.” He said that the programme was designed to benefit a few influential figures rather than deliver environmental gains.

“Leadership cannot and must never be for sale. Kenya deserves better,” Muturi said, calling for genuine accountability in public service.