Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has supported the establishment of the Office of the Opposition Leader to be occupied by Azimio One Kenya Alliance leader Raila Odinga.
Speaking during the launch of Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission’s (EACC) 2023 to 2028 strategic plan, Mudavadi said the opposition plays a critical role in the fight against corruption.
Further, Mudavadi explained that the Public Investments Committee (PIC) and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which are specifically preserved for the opposition, play an important role in the fight against corruption.
“The PIC plays a pivotal role in scrutinizing reports and financial accounts related to public investments. Working closely with the Auditor General, this committee can reveal inefficiencies and irregularities that may raise suspicions of corruption,” said Mudavadi.
Additionally, he explained that the PAC which is responsible for reviewing the accounts detailing the allocation of funds for public expenses also plays a significant part in identifying potential malpractices.
“The two are the preserve of the opposition, therefore, if we do not have an opposition, we are killing those institutions and contributing to the spreading of corruption,” explained Mudavadi.
Moreover, Mudavadi supported President William Ruto’s petition seeking to include the whole structure of the opposition in parliament.
“When the president made a specific petition to parliament that it is absolutely essential that we institutionalize the whole structure of opposition in parliament, he was actually sending a very strong message that if we tamper with it, we will be undermining the Constitution,” stated Mudavadi.
Furthermore, the Prime CS said the conversation around the creation of the opposition leader’s office is important.
Mudavadi on Corruption
Mudavadi mentioned that corruption poses a threat to the country and all anti-corruption agencies tagged must step up to end corruption.
In addition, he said the country must develop a culture that fights corruption whose fight must be wholesome.
“We may pass as many laws as possible regarding corruption, but societal values cannot be legislated. We all must participate in changing societal values so that the corrupt have nowhere to run to,” he said.
Also, he said it is his assignment to restore public trust in government institutions by eradicating corruption.
Additionally, he urged the EACC to develop close cooperation with other public institutions in fighting corruption.
“Several other public institutions like the Office of the Auditor General hold pivotal roles in the war against corruption. Equally important are the Judiciary, National Police Service, and the office of the DPP,” added Mudavadi.
Also, the Prime CS lauded the Asset Recovery Agency stating that it plays a crucial role in identifying assets got from the proceeds of corruption.
Supporting EACC Strategic Plan
Further, the Prime CS commended EACC for establishing an elaborate war plan against corruption.
Mudavadi said the Kenya Kwanza government will provide EACC with adequate resources to implement the launched strategic plan.
“The launch of this plan should not just be a formality but should be a plan of action to eradicate corruption,” he said.
He explained that the war against graft must take a whole of society and open government approach to succeed.
The Prime CS emphasized that the country must not politicize the war against corruption.
Additionally, he said no institution or individual is immune to the graft war.
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Role of Media
Also, Mudavadi recognized the role of the media in the ongoing battle against corruption.
The CS said the media is the watchdog of society and they have the power to change attitudes, share information and expose all forms of corruption.
“By exposing wrongdoings and holding the corrupt accountable, you inspire citizens to adopt a culture free of corruption,” he said.
Mudavadi also praised the investigative journalism stating that it promotes transparency and integrity in Kenya.
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EACC Strategic Plan
EACC Strategic Plan spells out the Commission’s strategic direction and focus in combating and preventing corruption and promotion of ethics over the 2023 – 2028 Plan period.
It also provides the key results areas and the key measures to be taken on: law enforcement; prevention; education, training and awareness; and promotion of ethics and integrity which are critical towards reduction of prevalence of corruption and unethical practices in Kenya.
Moreover, the Plan is founded on the Constitution and supported by four key pillars, which are derived from the Commission’s mandate.
This includes Law Enforcement; Promotion of Ethics and Integrity; Prevention of Corruption and Unethical Practices; and Education, Training and Public Awareness.
Also, it casts the vision of the Commission as An Integrity and Values-driven Kenyan Society.
Its goal is to eradicate corruption and enhance ethical conduct.
EACC Chairperson, Dr. David Oginde said, “Whereas we are greatly religious, we do not see that translated into our day-to-day living.
There is a Godlessness that has come upon us that has led us to the place where we are. Where we do not think twice about the consequences of engaging ourselves in evil.
