President William Ruto has called out Chief Justice Martha Koome for dragging corruption cases in courts.
Ruto during the State of the Nation address questioned how corruptions cases are dragged in court for years, yet all election petitions are concluded in 6 months.
“There is also no reason for corruption cases to drag in our courts for years when the same courts are able to determine election petitions and related disputes within six months, “said Ruto.
Ruto also opined that it cannot be the case that the Director of Public Prosecution keeps dropping cases because somehow, they are unable to produce witnesses,” Ruto said.
“It cannot also be the case that corruption suspects rush to court to obtain anticipatory bails that shield them from due process and enables them to compromise investigations,” Said Ruto.
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Ruto Questions Dragging of Cases
The Head of State emphasized that, of the many difficult assignments he has undertaken, the fight against corruption is one he now takes on with resolve going forward.
“Let this serve as notice to all. Independent Institutions charged with these responsibilities must up their game, pull up their socks and much up to the expectations of the people of Kenya,” Ruto added.
“I have stated in the past and reiterated today that in the face of undisputed evidence or credible information on corruption I will not hesitate to take decisive action.”
He further called on institution charged with combating corruption and promoting efficiency and integrity to stop hiding behind the transparent screen of independence and rise up to meet people’s expectations on matters integrity.
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The President Calls Out MPs and National Treasury
At the same time, President Ruto asked the Members of Parliament to stop denying the nation a much-needed instrument in the war against corruption by continuing to sabotage the passage of the Conflict-of-Interest bill.
“I implore you honorable members to stop dragging your feet on this bill unless my friends there is a conflict of interest in the passing of the conflict-of-interest legislation,” he warned.
Meanwhile, he warned the National Treasury for slowing the implementation of an e-procurement system for the last 10 years.
Consequently, he directed the National Treasury to roll out the e-procurement system by the end of first quarter of 2025.
“Ensure that going forward only procurement undertaken through this system is sanctioned and paid for,” Ruto emphasized.
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