CS Mbadi proposes unconventional approach to curb corruption

By Robert Mutasi

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has proposed an unconventional approach in the taming of Kenya's stubborn corruption menace.

While speaking during a public forum on fiscal accountability, Mbadi noted that KSh 2 billion lost daily to graft means that the country would be in a better situation even with a partial reduction of the theft.

"Imagine we can only reduce the theft, not even stop it completely," Mbadi said, insisting on the need for pragmatic ideas now.

He went ahead to float a rather controversial suggestion: those perpetrating corrupt deals should reduce the extent of theft.

"If someone has been stealing KSh 1,000, let him take KSh 500 instead; if it is KSh 100,000, cut it to KSh 50,000," he explained.

Mbadi argued that the seemingly absurd approach could save the country KSh 1 billion daily, money which significantly increases the revenue for the government in a country struggling with debt piling and fiscal constraints.

"Reducing the losses by half could be a game-changer for our economy," he added.

Corruption has long plagued Kenya’s public and private sectors, with its effects permeating every aspect of society.

From inflated procurement contracts to the embezzlement of public funds, the problem continues to undermine development efforts and erode public trust in institutions.

These remarks have drawn mixed reactions from the public and stakeholders. Critics cite that it normalizes corruption and lets perpetrators off the hook.

"Though not ideal, reducing theft can give immediate relief to an ailing economy," said Mary Atieno, economist.

She went on to add that the government needed to simultaneously strengthen anti-corruption frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to ensure lasting change.

The Treasury CS explained that his statement did not mean endorsing corruption, but rather embracing the present reality.

"We must confront this issue head-on, commencing with realistic solutions," he said.

These remarks by Mbadi reheat the debate on the best way corruption in Kenya could be tackled.