Murkomen Urges Annual Audits to Combat Corruption
CS Kipchumba Murkomen
Transport CS Murkomen Calls for Annual Lifestyle Audits for State Officers
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged all public servants and State officers to undergo annual lifestyle audits to combat corruption effectively.
Addressing Corruption Concerns
During the burial of former Principal Secretary Josiah Sang in Kapkatet, Kericho County, Murkomen highlighted concerns that recent anti-government protests raised about public servants and State officials misappropriating public resources and displaying extravagant lifestyles.
Proposal for Legislative Action
Murkomen proposed that Members of Parliament should enact legislation requiring civil servants to undergo audits before and after assuming public office to monitor their wealth acquisition.
Direct Quote from Murkomen
Murkomen said, “Instead of just saying that this person was a CS yesterday and today he has bought this and that, why don’t we pass a law in Kenya for lifestyle audit so that every year after office, we can do a lifestyle audit of every person who is holding public office, so that it is not just me who is being questioned about the price of shoes or shirt I am wearing.”
Alignment with Presidential Directive
The CS affirmed that this initiative aligns with President William Ruto’s recent directive to curb graft and ensure people live within their means, ensuring accountability for public servants.
Support for Public Sentiment
Murkomen also endorsed recent public demonstrations calling for State officers to be barred from participating in harambees where they’re accused of misappropriating public funds.
Quote on Practical Action
“It’s important as a country that we don’t just make speeches. We have agreed that since harambees can bring about corruption, let us put them aside,” he stated.
Public Outcry and Response
These remarks come after Kenyans expressed anger over how some State officials and politicians have been flashing their wealth and living expensive lifestyles at the expense of taxpayers.
Deputy President’s Perspective
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has since come out to caution elected and appointed leaders against displaying arrogance and opulence towards Kenyans, reminding them that they are in different capacities to serve the people.
