The Kenyan government has partnered with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to undertake a governance and corruption assessment to secure new funding from the institution, responding to pressure from Western nations.
This initiative aims to tackle the escalating issue of corruption within the country, which has become increasingly pervasive.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced the partnership on Monday, confirming that he signed the request on behalf of the Kenyan government.
Mudavadi stressed that this request for a governance and corruption diagnosis was made independently by the government.
“We have requested a governance and corruption diagnosis, and I signed that request for the government of Kenya,” he affirmed, underscoring that it was an initiative driven by the government itself.
He explained that one of the primary motivations for this action was the recurring nature of corruption, which needs to be addressed effectively.
He further disclosed, “After discussions with the President of the Republic of Kenya and the Treasury, the Government of Kenya, of its own accord, sought the IMF’s assistance to conduct a governance and corruption diagnosis in Kenya.”
All governmental parastatals, ministries, departments, and institutions will be required to participate in this mandatory governance and corruption assessment.
“No institution will be exempt from this diagnosis,” he emphasized.
Mudavadi pointed out that corruption is a widespread issue and that critical institutions vital to the economy will also be subjected to this diagnosis.
He asserted the necessity of this corruption diagnosis for advancing the economy and ensuring that citizens receive the full benefits of the taxes they contribute.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary issued a warning to corrupt public servants resistant to the diagnosis, indicating that their time in office may be limited.
He cautioned, “If it becomes evident that someone intentionally obstructed the implementation of certain technological aspects, then the diagnosis will identify you.”
Previously, the IMF had advised Kenya to conduct a comprehensive audit of corruption and governance before approving new funding of Ksh77.5 billion.
The government sought external financing without first addressing ongoing issues related to corruption and transparency.
The IMF expressed reluctance to disburse funds following Kenya’s cancellation of planned tax increases amounting to Ksh346 billion, which were halted after dramatic protests in June.
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