The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) recently released its National Ethics and Corruption Survey for 2023, unveiling concerning trends regarding corruption within government agencies in Kenya. The survey, conducted to gauge the prevalence and perception of corruption, highlighted the Kenya Police Department as the most susceptible agency to corrupt practices, according to 60.6% of Kenyan respondents.
Kenya police the most corrupt?
The report delved into specific departments where corruption was most rampant, indicating that services related to the Traffic Police notably increased the likelihood of bribery encounters, with rates averaging 1.45 times per service interaction. Other departments identified for high bribery rates included the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the Judiciary, and the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
The survey not only highlighted the prevalence of corruption but also shed light on the increasing average bribe amount in Kenya, which surged to KSh 11,625 in 2023 from KSh 6,865 in 2022. This substantial rise in bribery amounts reflects the deep-rooted nature of corruption across various sectors, including employment applications, passport services, and land dispute resolutions.
Moreover, the report outlined scenarios where service seekers faced multiple demands for bribes, especially when dealing with crucial government services. For example, individuals seeking Kenyan police security services reported facing bribes 1.41 times, while those involved in bail processes encountered requests for bribes 1.28 times on average.
The survey’s findings underscore the critical need for targeted interventions and reforms to combat corruption effectively. Addressing corruption within government agencies is paramount to fostering transparency, accountability, and trust among citizens. The EACC’s efforts, coupled with media coverage and public awareness campaigns led by journalists like Ntongai, play a vital role in exposing corrupt practices and advocating for ethical governance.
Finally, as Kenya navigates its anti-corruption agenda, collaboration between government institutions, civil society, and the media remains crucial in driving meaningful change and upholding integrity across all sectors of society.
