We don’t have details of graft claims against you, EACC tells Felix Koskei

Suspended Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Felix Koskei arrives at EACC offices after he was linked to graft in a list presented to Parliament by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Nairobi, Kenya: Suspended Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Felix Koskei Monday said Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) officials had informed him they did not have details of graft allegations against him.

Koskei had presented himself at EACC seeking to know why his name was included in President Uhuru Kenyatta’s list of shame. He was directed to report back to EACC on Thursday.

Koskei, who was accompanied by six lawyers, arrived at the EACC offices in the normal escort of two chase cars and bodyguards.

Saturday, he announced that he had stepped aside for 60 days – following the President’s directive - to allow probe into graft allegations facing him.

“I have not been questioned by EACC but I decided to step aside after my name featured in its report. It is the role of every Kenyan to respect the rule of law and uphold the spirit of constitutionalism and as leaders we have to lead by example,” said Koskei while announcing his decision to step aside.

He was the first Cabinet Secretary to heed the President’s orders made on Thursday during State of the Nation address in Parliament.

Some legislators have since defended the Cabinet Secretary, saying he has worked for the interest of farmers and wondered why he has been listed among those linked with corruption.

“The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has never summoned Koskei over corruption allegations. Koskei has assisted in eradicating cartels that have been influencing tea prices at Mombasa auction,” said Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter, who is also mentioned in the list.