Maraga: Corruption biggest threat to Kenya’s economic progress

Chief Justice David Maraga has vowed to combat the corruption menace in the country terming it as the biggest threat to Kenya’s economy.

Speaking at the Supreme Court during the swearing in of William Ouko as the new president of the Court of Appeal, CJ Maraga was keen to point out that the survival of Kenya will be seriously undermined if the trend continues.

“Corruption constitutes the single biggest threat to the rule of law and the social and economic progress of the people of Kenya,” said the CJ.

“Some estimates indicate that the Government of Kenya loses up to 30 % of its national budget to corruption every year. No wonder it has become a matter of national security concern while public anger has reached new levels.”

The Chief Justice also defended the credibility of the judiciary in handling cases of the so called “big fish” mentioned in corruption scandals.

“The Judiciary is accused of not convicting any ‘big fish,’ the common view being that the big fish will go to any length, use the ill gotten wealth to engage the best lawyers, interfere with witnesses and compromise magistrates and Judges to avoid a conviction,” said the Supreme Court president.

The CJ also issued a stern warning to those who might be involved in corruption in the judiciary.

“Members of the bench should promote and encourage their own personal integrity, honesty and transparency. Anyone who lacks the personal quality of integrity, transparency and honesty has no place on the Bench. Those who deviate from the direction of integrity must know that, like a thief, their 40 days will soon end,” added Maraga.