Every Kenyan has a role to play in war on graft

NAIROBI: With numerous reports of corruption coming up nearly on a daily basis, majority of Kenyans are becoming skeptical of our long-running desire and intent to curb the vice. They are fast losing confidence in institutions mandated to fight the looting of public resources. And while the first agency Kenyans look up to in this fight is the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), they also know the Executive and even the Opposition have not offered enough goodwill to slay this dragon.

The vice has permeated nearly every section of society and few of us can claim to be holier than thou. The temptation to take reward at the expense of the nation’s future has overwhelmed our patriotism and created a greedy elite gobbling up all opportunities. Those inside the ‘kitchen’ are eating without shame, while those outside are merely salivating waiting for their turn.

Corrupt leaders loot as much as possible knowing that when they will be caught in the act, they will grease the palms of those seeking to punish them. And those not in positions of influence are busy scheming how to turn the tables, not to fight the rot, but for their turn to eat.

It has reached a point where even as President Uhuru Kenyatta asked the Pope to pray for this fight, Kenyans must reflect soberly and seek to make corruption impossible. We must make corruption unattractive and dissuade ourselves including our children from engaging in it. If teaching about it in schools will help, why not do it now?

Corruption should be exposed for what it is. It kills our nationhood, our children’s future, our status in the community of nations, our personal and national dreams. Why should we keep promising tough action and not moving an inch? Why should we accept doublespeak on this vice that has gripped our neck for so long? We must now cross the Rubicon and chart a new way of conducting business between the government and the private sector.

From the Goldenberg scandal, the Anglo Leasing scam, the NYS looting spree and the ongoing theft at county governments, Kenyans are now weary of corruption reports. They want action and a genuine champion against theft of public resources. The ongoing recovery of assets accrued through corruption is a good starting point.

Those found guilty of dipping their fingers in the public purse must pay dearly. Their court cases should be dispensed with speedily and let them be locked up to serve as examples of the ‘leaders’ Kenyans should not deserve.

For stealing money meant for development such as roads, hospitals, schools and other amenities, the corrupt individuals deny a whole generation a decent shot at life.