By Tajeu Shadrack Nkapapa
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has demanded that Kisii Senator Hon. Onyonka substantiate corruption claims against the Commission.
“On this matter, what EACC wants is the Senator to substantiate his wild and spurious claims against its officials which he has to date failed to explain, despite his sustained attacks on the Commission,” EACC said on an X post.
EACC stated that for several months, the Kisii Senator has persistently engaged in a smear campaign targeting the Commission and its officials, primarily through unfounded accusations made during his live television and radio broadcasts.
“This is not only malicious but also unethical and irresponsible,” EACC said.
The Commission added that while it is not uncommon for individuals investigated or under investigation by the Commission for theft of public funds to deploy such gimmicks, Hon. Richard Onyonka has overstretched it.
“Senators have a constitutional obligation to advance public accountability in Kenya and as such, Hon. Onyonka should abandon actions that frustrate the fight against corruption,” EACC added.
According to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, a Senator is expected to support strong anti-corruption legislation such as the original version of the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2023 which is aimed at taming conflict of interest and theft of public funds in the national and county governments.
“Contrary to the view held by the Senator, EACC has investigated numerous multi-billion graft cases resulting into successful civil recovery suits by the Commission and recommendations, with cogent evidence, for the prosecution of high profile suspects,” the Commission stated on X.
EACC said that such information is available in the various EACC Annual and Quarterly Reports submitted to Parliament.