MP Proposes Abolishing Law Barring Corruption Convicts From Occupying Govt Jobs

Anti-corruption crusaders have expressed worries with regard to the bill that Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament Peter Kaluma has proposed aiming to amend the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act 2023. 

On Thursday, June 29, Kaluma suggested repealing Section 64 of Chapter Six of the Constitution, which disallows individuals found guilty of corruption from occupying public office. The MP is a member of the ODM Party.

Kaluma has been confronted with solid opposition from anti-graft campaigners who are demanding the bill's withdrawal. Constitutional lawyer Ekuru Aukot is among those who have voiced their reservations, cautioning that the bill is regressive as it would undo all the progress made in the fight against corruption. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) also cautions that repealing the clause would eradicate the preventive effect that is present in the existing provision, which stops people convicted of corruption from holding a public office for ten years from the date of their conviction.

The EACC is required to make public the identities of those found guilty of corruption. The commission reiterates that the current anti-corruption laws are inadequate for the fight against corruption. Transparency International's recent report reveals that Kenya is the 57th most corrupt nation out of 180 surveyed countries, a decline of seven positions from the 49th rank in 2021.