Ruku fires warning shot at corrupt public officials

CS Public Service, Geoffrey Ruku [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has called on the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to arrest public officials implicated in corruption.

Speaking at Kirewe Grounds in Kwale County on Wednesday, Ruku was responding to the EACC's latest report, which highlights widespread bribery in key government departments, including the police, immigration, and civil registration offices.

The report revealed that many Kenyans struggle to access public services and are often forced to pay bribes, even for essential services such as healthcare.

Several professions were listed among the worst offenders, with some job seekers reportedly paying up to Sh243,651 in bribes to secure employment.

"I am calling on the EACC to act decisively and arrest all those named in the reports. We cannot continue protecting corrupt public servants. The President has made it clear; integrity must prevail, and Kenya must be free of corruption," said Ruku.

The Public Service CS also urged citizens to play an active role in the fight against corruption by reporting officials who solicit bribes.

"Do not fear reporting corrupt officers. Even if it means calling me directly or forwarding the information to the relevant authorities, speak up," he stated.

EACC report released yesterday revealed that securing employment at the Teachers Service Commission can cost up to Sh72,665 in bribes, while winning a government tender may require a payment of around Sh100,000.

Despite a decline in the average bribe from Sh11, 625 in 2023 to Sh4, 878 in 2024, more than 83 percent of Kenyans believe the country is losing the war on corruption.

The report flagged the Interior, Health, and Treasury ministries as the most notorious for unethical conduct, citing favoritism, tribalism, nepotism, and theft of public funds.