US Hails Kenya's Crackdown on Corruption

United States has welcomed the recent crackdown on corruption by President Kenyatta’s administration.

In a statement, outgoing American ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec said the vice has for long acted as a major impediment to the country's development agenda.

The envoy applauded the swift action taken by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and other State agencies against those implicated  in the National Youth Service (NYS) scandal involving billions of shillings.

“No country is free of corruption, and many of ours have faced challenges.  There are no shortcuts to tackling the problem. It requires strong Kenyan political leadership, a commitment to zero tolerance for corruption, and all government and law enforcement agencies working together,” Godec said.

He echoed President Uhuru's sentiments that those responsible should face the law regardless of their political party, ethnicity or rank.

“Individuals or organizations found guilty of stealing should be held accountable, to include forfeiting the proceeds of their crimes. And Kenyans need strong, reliable institutions and systems that reduce the opportunities for corruption,” he added.

Godec called on Kenyans to stand together in the war against graft even as he assured of US  assistance and support.

His statement comes a day after more than 30 suspects were on Tuesday paraded in court over the NYS scandal. Among those arraigned were top government officials including Youth Affairs Principal Secretary Lilian Omollo and NYS Director-General Richard Ndubai.