President Ruto vows to fight corruption, calls for speedy passage of anti-graft bill

President William Ruto during his State of the Nation address at Parliament on Thursday, November 9, 2023. [Elvis Ogina,Standard]

President William Ruto has warned ministries and state departments against corruption, saying that cases of misconduct and graft will be dealt with ruthlessly, expeditiously and with finality.

In his State of the Nation address on Thursday, November 9, Ruto said that corruption, wastage, inefficiency, and negligence are serious threats to the country’s transformation agenda and unacceptable practices that have no place in Kenya.

“I have given my assurance to the people of Kenya that cases of misconduct and corruption shall be dealt with ruthlessly, expeditiously and with finality,” he said.

He also asked the members of parliament to fasten the passage of the Assets Declaration and Conflict of Interest Bill, which he said will further tighten the anti-corruption policy framework and eliminate space for those who want to steal public money.

“I ask this honorable House to finalize the Assets Declaration and Conflict of Interest Bill to further tighten our anti-corruption policy framework and eliminate space for those who want to steal our money,” he said.

Ruto outlined the achievements and challenges of his administration in the past year, highlighting the progress made in various sectors, such as health, education, infrastructure, security, and agriculture.

He also acknowledged the difficulties faced by Kenyans due to the high cost of living and promised to implement more reforms and policies to improve the welfare of the citizens.

He urged Kenyans to remain united and hopeful and said that his government is committed to the Kenya Kwanza vision of building a prosperous, inclusive, and democratic nation.

Ruto’s speech to the House elicited mixed reactions from MPs, who expressed their views on the performance and the vision of the Kenya Kwanza government. Some praised his leadership and achievements, while others criticized his handling of the economy.