EACC to go after corrupt judiciary staff, police officers

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has warned of more arrests of judiciary staff and police officers in the fight on graft.

EACC chairperson Dr David Oginde said this is part of intensifying efforts to root out corruption in the Judiciary and the National Police Service (NPS).

Dr. Oginde said that the commission has the goodwill of top leadership in the judiciary and police institutions to advance investigations and execute arrests.

“We spoke with the Chief Justice regarding corruption within the Judiciary, and she acknowledged that there have been reports implicating judicial officers," said Oginde.

He added: "She urged us to go after them. When we arrested a magistrate recently, there was a lot of chatter, but we are not stopping. You will see more action in the judiciary."

Similarly, he said that discussions with the Inspector General of Police resulted in an assurance that corrupt officers will not be shielded.

“The IG has given us the green light to act, and he has warned his officers that if they are caught engaging in corruption, they will not receive protection. We recently went after the head of traffic in Nairobi, and we are pursuing corruption in the police force strategically,” said Oginde.

Oginde was speaking on Thursday during a consultative meeting with the Kenya Editors Guild.

The chairperson reiterated that EACC is now taking a more strategic approach to corruption, working closely with institutional heads.

“We are working with various institutional heads, and none of them have told us to stay away. They are all supportive, and this cooperation will strengthen our fight against corruption,” he said.

Speaking at a Press Club luncheon organized by the EACC and the Editors' Guild, Dr. Oginde dismissed claims that the commission is a ‘toothless bulldog.’

He said that those who make such statements have simply not yet experienced its full impact.

“The only people who say that are those who have not been arrested by EACC. When we get to you, then you will realise how sharp the teeth are. Just by inviting people to our office, you can see how they tremble,” said Oginde.

Further, he stated the importance of asset recovery, stating that stripping corrupt individuals of their illicit gains is a key deterrent.

“It takes a lot of work to be corrupt, believe it or not. These individuals put in extensive effort and take significant risks. If, in the end, they cannot benefit from their corruption, that in itself serves as a deterrent,” Oginde said.