By Dorothy Musyoka
In his State of the Nation (SOTN) address, President William Ruto has called for action by the Houses of Parliament and the National Treasury, on critical anti-corruption measures.
Speaking during his address in the parliament, the head of state highlighted the importance of legislative and technological tools in curbing graft, the President called out delays in passing the Conflict of Interest Bill and the implementation of an e-procurement system.
President Ruto expressed disappointment at Parliament’s prolonged failure to pass the Conflict of Interest Bill, a key piece of legislation designed to enhance accountability and transparency in public service.
“It is also unacceptable for the Houses of Parliament to deny the nation a much-needed instrument in the war on corruption by continuing to sabotage the passage of the Conflict of Interest Bill,” stated the President.
“I implore you Honourable members, to stop dragging your feet on this bill, unless, my friends, there is a conflict of interest, in the passing of the conflict of interest legislation,” added President Ruto.
Additionally, the head of state also issued an ultimatum to the National Treasury to expedite the rollout of an e-procurement system, a digital tool aimed at promoting efficiency and transparency in public procurement processes.
“Similarly, the National Treasury has been dragging its feet in the implementation of an e-procurement system for nearly 10 years. Today, I direct the National Treasury to roll out the e-procurement system by the end of the first quarter of 2025, and ensure that, going forward, only procurement undertaken through this system is sanctioned,” noted the President.
The proposed Conflict of Interest Bill and e-procurement system are expected to play pivotal roles in fostering a culture of integrity, accountability, and transparency in government operations.