THE INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION DAY 2016 COMMEMORATED IN KAKAMEGA
Kakamega CountyΒ hosted the 2016 International Anti-Corruption Day for Western region at Approved School with the theme being βFighting Corruption: Our Collective Responsibility.’
Speaking at the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) sponsored event, Ms. Charity Chepkonga Bokindo, Director in the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, representing Cabinet Secretary Prof. Judy Wakhungu, said war on corruption is a collective responsibility that requires the involvement of all Kenyans. Ms. Bokindo passed the CS’s message saying all public and state officials stand cautioned for abuse of office, misappropriation of public funds, bribery, conflict of interest and dishonesty in paying taxes among others. Prof. Wakhungu called on every resident to be satisfied with whatever they have so as to rid the system of corruption.
Kakamega County Deputy Gvernor H.E Prof. Philip Kutima appreciated EACC and all the stakeholders for ensuring the event was successful and for the trainings offered to County Executive and County Assembly members on how to fight the vice.
Prof. Kutima read out H.E. Governor Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya’s message where Governor Oparanya reiterated his government’s commitment to fighting corruption. Governor Oparanya highlighted that the government has put in place policies such as operationalization of leadership and integrity to guide public servants on how to curb and control corruption in the county government. H.E Governor Oparanya added that his government has gone ahead to prepare a leadership code of conduct which has been approved by the EACC, gazetted and is now with the County Assembly.
EACC Commissioner Representative said corruption is a multi-faceted phenomenon that requires everyoneβs effort to eradicate as it ravages development efforts.
Kakamega County Commissioner Mr. KangetheThuku said the National Government through the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) was working hand in hand with county government and other agencies to eradicate corruption at the grassroots through such arrangements as the Nyumba Kumi Initiative.
Mrs. Irene Kaibe representing Inspector General’s office passed the IG’s message where the police boss stressed on the need for all residents to fight corruption. Mr. Boinnet said his office has put in place programs like the automated KRA function- itax and the corruption prevention committe to fight corruption.
In attendance also were Kakamega and Vihiga county government CEC members, Officials from Busia County, Reprentatives of senior officers from EACC, Office of Director of Public Prosecution, Auditor General, KUPPET among others.