KRA dismisses 19 staff over corruption, ethical breaches

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has dismissed 19 employees in the second quarter of the 2024/25 financial year.

The staffers faced allegations including dishonesty, fraud, negligence of duty, absenteeism, conflict of interest, impersonation, and other ethical violations.

During the same period, KRA received 246 corruption reports through iWhistle, a web-based platform that allows the public to report corruption and tax evasion anonymously.

The estimated tax losses linked to these cases amount to Sh 4.39 billion.

"In the period under review, six lifestyle audits were conducted, and 117 staff members underwent the vetting process. Other key anti-corruption measures include profiling tax evaders and adopting a Whole of Government approach, promoting collaboration among public institutions to enhance compliance and curb tax evasion," reads the statement.

In a strategic meeting on Wednesday, February 12, KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga and Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) CEO Abdi Mohamud pledged closer collaboration to combat corruption, money laundering, tax fraud, and tax evasion.

“We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to those who abuse our systems. Our collaboration with EACC is not just strategic; it is a moral imperative. We will establish a robust framework that not only deters tax evasion but also imposes strict penalties on those who facilitate such evasion, ensuring accountability,” said Wattanga.

Mohamud echoed the urgency of addressing corruption within the tax system saying:

“This collaboration is crucial in expanding our efforts to eradicate corruption and uphold the rule of law. Together, we can foster an environment that discourages corrupt practices and promotes ethical business conduct.”