Corruption chronicles: Why Kenya can't seem to break the cycle

 

Kenya, often touted as the economic powerhouse of East Africa, is equally infamous for its endemic corruption. From post-independence scandals like the Goldenberg affair to recent exposes involving COVID-19 funds, corruption has remained a persistent vice. Despite widespread public outrage and numerous anti-corruption campaigns, the cycle of graft appears unbroken. Why does Kenya struggle to rid itself of this menace? Below, we explore the roots, systemic challenges, and potential solutions.

Historical Roots of Corruption in Kenya

Kenya’s corruption woes can be traced back to the colonial era. The British colonial administration prioritized resource extraction over equitable development, creating a system where loyalty was rewarded with access to resources. Post-independence, this system persisted, as elites inherited an economy structured to benefit a few at the expense of many.

The "politics of patronage" became entrenched, with leaders doling out public resources to secure political support. This culture of impunity—where political leaders were rarely held accountable—laid the groundwork for systemic corruption.

Structural Causes of Corruption

1. Weak Institutions

Kenya's institutions, such as the judiciary, anti-corruption bodies, and law enforcement, have historically lacked independence and resources. This allows politically connected individuals to evade accountability. Even when investigations lead to indictments, convictions are rare, perpetuating a culture of impunity.

2. Over-centralization of Power

The concentration of power in the executive branch fosters corruption. Leaders with unchecked authority can manipulate systems to protect their allies. Devolution, introduced in 2010, was meant to decentralize power, but corruption has now spread to county governments, with governors and local officials accused of siphoning funds.

3. Ethnic Politics

Ethnic divisions in Kenya’s politics play a significant role in enabling corruption. Politicians often exploit tribal affiliations to rally support and shield themselves from accountability. Corruption scandals are reframed as ethnic persecution rather than criminal activity, diluting the focus on justice.

4. Weak Enforcement of Anti-Corruption Laws

Kenya has robust anti-corruption laws, yet enforcement remains weak. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has been criticized for being toothless, with limited success in prosecuting high-profile cases. Cases involving influential individuals often drag on for years, undermining public trust in the system.

Cultural Normalization of Corruption

Corruption has become normalized in many aspects of Kenyan society. From paying bribes to access basic services to grand corruption in government tenders, the vice is woven into the social fabric. A lack of accountability at the top trickles down, fostering apathy and cynicism among citizens.

A 2019 survey by Transparency International found that nearly half of Kenyans believe ordinary citizens have a role in fighting corruption. However, many feel powerless to act due to systemic inertia and fear of repercussions.

Key Scandals: A Legacy of Impunity

Kenya’s history is littered with high-profile corruption scandals that illustrate the depth of the problem:

Goldenberg Scandal (1990s): An alleged export compensation scheme saw the government lose billions of shillings. Despite extensive investigations, few were held accountable.

Anglo Leasing Scandal (2000s): A fraudulent security contract cost taxpayers billions, yet no significant convictions occurred.

COVID-19 Funds Scandal (2020): During the pandemic, funds meant for life-saving medical supplies were misappropriated, sparking outrage but limited punitive action.

Why the Cycle Persists

1. Political Interference

Politicians accused of corruption often use their influence to manipulate investigations and judicial outcomes. In some cases, they secure powerful positions, making accountability nearly impossible.

2. Lack of Political Will

Anti-corruption campaigns are often politically motivated, targeting rivals rather than addressing systemic issues. Successive governments have failed to demonstrate genuine commitment to tackling corruption across the board.

3. Ineffective Civil Society Pressure

While civil society and the media play critical roles in exposing graft, their efforts are often met with intimidation, legal threats, or censorship.

4. Economic Inequality

Poverty and inequality drive citizens to prioritize short-term survival over demanding systemic change. Politicians exploit this by offering handouts, reinforcing patronage networks.

Breaking the Cycle: Is There Hope?

Kenya has the tools to fight corruption but requires a paradigm shift to implement meaningful reforms. Here are some potential solutions:

1. Strengthening Institutions: Empowering bodies like the EACC and judiciary with autonomy and resources is critical. Transparent recruitment processes and term limits for leadership positions can reduce political interference.

2. Political Reforms: Reducing the concentration of power in the executive and holding all government branches accountable can curtail abuse. Devolution should be accompanied by strict oversight mechanisms.

3. Public Education: Changing societal attitudes toward corruption requires long-term investment in civic education. Citizens need to understand their rights and demand accountability without fear or bias.

4. Leveraging Technology: Digitizing government processes can minimize opportunities for graft. Systems like e-procurement have shown promise in reducing corruption in public tenders.

5. Civil Society Mobilization: Strengthening grassroots movements and whistleblower protections can amplify public pressure on leaders to act.

Conclusion

Breaking the cycle of corruption in Kenya is not an overnight task. It requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society, and ordinary citizens. While the challenges are immense, the rising awareness and public outcry offer hope. By prioritizing accountability, transparency, and a shift in cultural norms, Kenya can take meaningful steps toward eradicating corruption and realizing its full potential.