EACC boss Mohamud calls for stronger partnership in war on graft

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud has called on the media to enhance collaboration with the commission in the fight against corruption.

Speaking on Thursday during the third engagement at the Kenya Editors Guild Press Club at Sarova Hotel, Nairobi , Mohamud stressed that the fight against corruption cannot be won by EACC alone and urged the media to remain proactive in exposing corruption.

“I invite the media to work closely with us. Together, we can ensure that corruption does not rob our nation of a bright future,” he said.

He also announced plans for structured engagements, training, and capacity-building programs to strengthen cooperation between the EACC and journalists. Mohamud emphasised the media’s critical role in shaping public discourse and holding leaders accountable.

“The media plays a pivotal role in exposing wrongdoing and ensuring accountability. In the fight against corruption, the media acts as both a powerful ally and a vigilant watchdog,” he said.

The event, held under the theme “Turning the Tide: From Stolen Assets to Public Good,” focused on asset recovery and the reinvestment of recovered assets for the benefit of the public.

Mohamud revealed that in the past five years, the commission has recovered Sh28 billion in corruptly acquired assets, which have since been restored for public use.

“The rationale behind asset recovery is to ensure that the corrupt do not profit from their illegal conduct. This not only restores stolen wealth to the public but also serves as a deterrent,” he explained.

He highlighted that in September 2024, the EACC handed over land worth Sh5 billion and cash assets of Sh514 million to public institutions.

The CEO further noted that over 400 cases are currently at various trial stages, targeting the forfeiture of Sh50 billion in corruptly acquired assets.

Mohamud outlined the commission’s priority areas in tackling corruption, including asset tracing and forfeiture, monitoring capital-intensive projects and, enhancing integrity testing.

“We will intensify efforts to trace and recover unexplained assets and ensure they are returned to the public," he said.

"We aim to identify corruption loopholes in major projects, track budget utilisation, and intervene in cases of fund misappropriation. Mohamud added that the are enhancing integrity testing, strengthening compliance with leadership and integrity laws, training and capacity building and leveraging technology.

“Technology is a powerful enabler in the fight against corruption. We will integrate AI, automation, and data analytics to strengthen our investigative capacity,” the CEO said.

The CEO reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fighting corruption and emphasised that public support and multi-sector collaboration are essential in achieving a corruption-free Kenya.

“The fight against corruption requires the effort of every sector. Let us join hands and make integrity the foundation of our society,” Mohamud said.