The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) will in January 2025 usher in a new era of Abdi Mohamud as the new CEO if his nomination is approved by the National Assembly.
Mohamud will be taking over at a time when the country is in dire need of a fierce fight against corruption which has been described as the country’s biggest challenge.
If approved, his tenure is expected to intensify the fight against graft in Kenya, a battle critical to restoring public trust in governance
Those who have closely worked with him describe him as highly professional and well-skilled for the job.
Indeed he is.
With a Master of Science Degree in Security and Risk Management from the University of Leicester, United Kingdom, a Bachelor of Laws Degree from Mt. Kenya University and a Professional Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law, Mohamud ticks all the boxes of a right a person for the job.
His expansive training over the years as a career detective in corruption and economic crimes both locally and internationally with various distinguished law enforcement agencies also makes him ideal for the role.
Having started his career in 1989 as a Cadet Inspector at the Kenya Police Service and later at EACC, his journey to the top paints a picture of a man who understands the workings of the government and the EACC.
Being an insider who understands the strengths and weaknesses of the commission, Abdi is expected to leverage his knowledge of the anti-graft body to slay the corruption dragon in the country.
As an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a seasoned investigator with a wealth of experience spanning over 30 years, Kenyans can only expect more from him in taming corruption and other forms of economic crimes.
For Mohamud to succeed, however, he must reinforce investigations by streamlining processes to ensure efficient handling of cases and swift resolution.
He should endeavour to enhance collaboration by partnering with local and international bodies to share intelligence and resources in the fight against graft.
Mohamud should also be ready to strengthen institutional frameworks by advocating for policies that close loopholes exploited by corrupt individuals.
Also, it will be prudent for him to enhance public engagement.
This, he can do, by promoting a culture of accountability through education campaigns targeting both public officials and citizens.
During his tenure as Director of Investigations at the Commission, Abdi demonstrated key leadership qualities that will definitely enable him to steer the Commission to greater heights.
He led high-stakes inquiries into economic crimes during which he secured convictions and recovery of public assets running into billions.
While Mohamud’s credentials inspire confidence, the fight against corruption in Kenya is fraught with challenges.
They include entrenched networks of graft, limited resources, and resistance from powerful individuals. However, his resilience and strategic approach provide hope.
But with his vast experience, Mohamud has no option but to take these challenges head-on and restore public trust in the EACC.
Ahmed Sadik is a governance expert who comments on topical issues,
