Kenyan President William Ruto has publicly accused some members of Parliament of accepting bribes, specifically alleging that a few MPs collected 10 million Kenyan shillings to pass the Anti-Money Laundering Bill. He vowed to arrest and prosecute those involved, condemning corruption as damaging the credibility of Parliament. The accusations were made during a joint meeting of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) parliamentary groups, which are working together following a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at implementing a 10-point agenda and the NADCO report to stabilize the country. The meeting, co-led by President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, ended abruptly amid tensions. Some MPs, including Geoffrey Wandeto and Robert Mbui, criticized the government and Parliament, highlighting concerns that Parliament has become an extension of the Executive and that corruption is a national issue affecting all branches of government. The formation of the Zani Committee, chaired by former ODM Secretary-General Agnes Zani, aims to address these issues and present a report by March 7, 2025, marking the first anniversary of the UDA-ODM MOU. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki praised the UDA-ODM partnership for promoting national stability and inclusivity. Meanwhile, President Ruto acknowledged a decline in his popularity, attributing it to the tough reforms his government has implemented.
The committee, chaired by former ODM Secretary-General Agnes Zani, has been tasked with spearheading the work immediately and presenting a final report by March 7, 2025—coinciding with the first anniversary of the UDA-ODM Memorandum of Understanding https://t.co/rH06puG2eL
Dr. Peter Masara – MP, Suna West: The President is clearly fed up with corruption. If he speaks about arresting those in power who are involved, we should support him fully. #CitizenDayBreak https://t.co/fe4hn5JoVg
Hillary Sigei – Senator, Bomet: The moment the President addresses the issue of corruption, it signals that change is necessary. That’s the reality of democracy, the majority will have their way, and the minority will have their say. #CitizenDayBreak https://t.co/BEtYfXXGQ4