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Retired Archbishop Eliud Wabukala sworn in as the new Chair of Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. (Photo: Beverlyne Musili/Standard)
New EACC Chair Wabukala vows to crush graft cartels
New anti-corruption boss Archbishop Eliud Wabukala has vowed to crush graft cartels and warned public officers to prepare to take personal responsibility for their actions. Speaking after being sworn in by Chief Justice David Maraga at the Supreme Court, the new Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission chairman said the war on corruption can be won if every person becomes part of the fight without leaving it to the commission. “Those in positions of leadership especially cabinet secretaries, principal secretaries, chief executive officers, governors and accounting officers must take responsibility and also be held personally answerable for what happens under their watch,” said Wabukala. Wabukala’s swearing in marked the beginning of his reign at the hot seat which has witnessed his predecessors unceremoniously removed from office. He replaces Philip Kinisu who resigned after being named in the National Youth Service scandal. He however stated that he is aware of the challenges faced by former EACC bosses and that he is equal to the task having worked in the anti-corruption sector for 12 years as chairman of the national anti-corruption campaign steering committee. ALSO READ: Wabukala, Chebukati have their work cut out “I am aware that I am joining the EACC when perception of corruption is extremely high. I am also aware of the challenges facing the fight against corruption but it is a war we can win if all Kenyans take up their roles without being part of the problem,” said Wabukala. Chief Justice David Maraga told the new EACC chairman to ensure the commission does good investigations before charging suspects, and not to blame the judiciary when suspected corrupt individuals are acquitted due to weak evidence. The CJ added that the judiciary shall continue doing its job and if the EACC presents a case with strong evidence they shall sentence the suspect to jail. “Every institution must carry its own cross if we are to succeed in the war against corruption. You should ensure that investigations by the EACC are properly done, not like those designed to fail. We know the fight against corruption is messy but we must continue in the path of doing what is right,” said Maraga. He reminded Wabukala that the position of EACC chairman has become like a cursed office, but that the commission must have a head to steer it despite the influence and power wielded by graft cartels. Wabukala urged Kenyans to give him time to deliver results, adding that his mission will be to strengthen the commission to ensure it works effectively. “I will join with my fellow commissioners and EACC management in lobbying for resources to enhance its capacity and tenacity and ensure that its presence is felt across the country. I am committed to cultivate more collaboration to add value to the fight against corruption,” he said. ALSO READ: Wabukala must be wary of the EACC Secretariat He asked the judiciary and magistrates hearing corruption cases to impose tough sentences for those found guilty as a way of deterring the problem.
Read more at: https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2000230995/new-eacc-chair-wabukala-vows-to-crush-graft-cartels
