Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Felix Kosgey has stepped aside to allow for investigations into corruption allegations against him, becoming the first senior government official to do so since the president directed those implicated in under-hand deals to quit their jobs.
Addressing a press conference today, Mr Kosgey said he had confirmed with State House that his name is on the list handed to the National Assembly by President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday.More ministers are expected to follow suit.
He did not defend himself but said he will appeat before the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission on Monday to find out the allegations against him and record a statement “to ensure speedy investigations”. Mr Kosgey said he will be vindicated after the investigations are complete as he has never engaged in corrupt activities.
The confidential report handed to Speaker Justin Muturi by President Kenyatta includes all 26 members of the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament, among other MPs, heads of parastatals and various principal secretaries.
Other public and State Officers suspected of corruption are still in office. Council of Governors (CoG) chairman Isaac Ruto has said no governor will step aside over corruption allegations. He dismissed the call saying the President was only making a political statement that has nothing to do with the fight against corruption.
He challenged Deputy President William Ruto to lead the way by vacating office due to his ongoing case at the International Criminal Court if indeed the government is serious about tackling the vice.
Leave a comment