The arrest of former Cabinet Secretary for Tourism Najib Balala has sparked another round of debate on corruption in Kenya.
Saboti Member of Parliament (MP) Caleb Amisi weighed in on the matter, saying the fight against corruption in Kenya has been turned into a public circus.
“The fight against corruption in this country has become the most conspicuous ‘publicity device’ of human existence. It is a circus. A game of musical chairs,” Amisi began.
Former CS Henry Rotich released
He recalled the recent acquittal of former Treasury CS Henry Rotich in the KSh63 billion Arror and Kimwarer dams scandal, which did not sit well with many.
According to the lawmaker, Rotich’s release after four years of court battles was simply out of the president’s influence.
“Rotich was arrested by #uhuru, but Balala was spared ,Rotich has been released by #rutonomics at a speed faster than lightening.”
He projected that the same favour would fall upon the now embattled Balala should another regime come into place.
“… and most likely, najib balala will be released by the next regime and the game plays on.”
MP Amisi, a member of Raila Odinga’s Azimio coalition, opined that ‘fight against corruption’ needs an awakening as it has seemingly lost its meaning.
“Fight against corruption should no longer be in our manifesto . It is now a tired line. Kenyans are no longer interested in the rhetoric anymore. KENYA NEEDS A RENAISSANCE.”
Najib Balala arrested
Balala was arrested alongside three others on Friday, December 21 evening by Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) officers.
The three who were arrested alongside Balala include Leah Adda Gwiyo, the former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, as well as Joseph Odero, the Managing partner, West Consult Engineers.
EACC Spokesperson Eric Ngumbi says that the said individuals have been arrested in connection to the irregular payment of KSh8.5 billion meant for the construction of Kenya Utalii College, Coast branch, in Kilifi.
Balala is expected to be arraigned in court later today.
