Silverio Omari
President William Ruto has announced stringent new measures for public officers as part of his commitment to eradicating corruption throughout government sectors. During a State House briefing following the swearing-in of 19 Cabinet Secretaries, Ruto declared that any accounting officer or public servant found misusing public resources would face financial surcharges.
Surcharging involves imposing additional fees beyond the original cost. For example, surcharging on income tax would mean an extra tax imposed on the specified officer, with limits set by the government. This approach is intended to boost accountability among public officers.
“The reconstituted Cabinet will build on the strong foundation laid over the past two years, focusing particularly on enhancing accountability and combating corruption,” Ruto stated.
He elaborated, “To promote accountability and responsibility in the use of public resources, we will introduce measures to levy surcharges against any accounting officer or public officer who, through their actions or omissions, causes a loss of public resources, as outlined in Articles 226 (5), 201 (d), and 232 (b) of the Constitution.”
Ruto also announced plans to establish a framework for vetting all public officers to assess their sources of wealth. Additionally, he pledged that all corruption-related cases would be resolved within six months.
Believing that increased safety and ease for whistleblowers would help eradicate corruption, Ruto said, “To this end, the reconstituted Cabinet will consider amendments to the Witness Protection Act to provide better incentives. I have engaged with parliamentary leaders to expedite the passage of the Conflict of Interests Bill and am committed to signing a robust, effective law soon.”
For the upcoming financial year, President Ruto pledged to implement a zero-based budgeting system, requiring justification for all expenses in each new period. He also promised greater transparency in the VAT refund process to ensure accountability.
Previously, Ruto noted that Kenya spends approximately Ksh.400 billion annually on VAT refunds. He suggested that these funds would now be redirected towards investment projects.
In closing, Ruto urged the new Cabinet Secretaries to collaborate effectively to fulfill their roles and drive the nation’s transformation. “I assure you of my full support in carrying out your duties and advancing our transformation agenda. However, my support will cease if it conflicts with my accountability to the people of Kenya,” he emphasized.
